Environment

Southern Illinois residents are bracing for change as the Legislature considers a regulatory bill that could set off a rush to drill for oil and gas. The area includes two counties that have never had conventional oil or gas drilling, and its residents are deeply divided over what it could mean for their way of life. Johnson and Pope counties have some of the Illinois' most remote and scenic areas. 

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency wants to hear from people with concerns about the state's hunting regulations. The TWRA is asking the public for comments on proposed regulations for the 2013-2014 hunting seasons. Officials say it's an opportunity for citizens to share their concerns with the agency. Proposed regulations can be found on the TWRA website at tnwildlife.org. Those interested can also send comments by mail. The TWRA will be taking comments until May 27th.

Members of the Tennessee faith community are expressing their opposition to a bill that would make it a crime to video record animal abuse if it isn't turned over to law enforcement authorities within 48 hours. The director of Clergy for Justice and another minister delivered a letter to Gov. Bill Haslam this week asking him to veto the bill, which is drawing opposition from other groups and even some celebrities.

Kentucky has set a record with April's sales of hunting and fishing licenses. The state Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources says sales totaled more than $7 million. Fish and Wildlife Budget Director Scott King says the mark broke the previous record by $140,000 and is $800,000 more than the April average.