Senate passes bill allowing supplemental deer feeding with sunset clause amid chronic wasting disease debate

The North Dakota Senate passed Senate Bill 2137 on final passage after a lengthy debate over chronic wasting disease and private property rights. The bill, described on the floor as an act to create and enact a new section to chapter 20.1-05 of the North Dakota Century Code relating to the use of supplemental feed for hunting, passed by a roll-call tally of 31 ayes and 15 nays.

Senator Lam, the bill carrier, said the measure responds to extensive testimony and debate over whether supplemental feeding contributes to chronic wasting disease, or CWD. "The theory is that deer congregating over feed piles contributes to the spread of CWD," Lam said, noting his committee held a packed hearing that required a larger room. The agriculture and veterans affairs committee voted 5-1 for a due-pass recommendation and added a sunset clause to allow the North Dakota Game and Fish Department to continue its research.

The bill’s provisions, as explained on the floor, would permit supplemental feeding to continue under the law while the Game and Fish Department studies disease transmission and management options. Opponents warned the measure could undermine disease controls and urged deference to Game and Fish rules. "I think we should let the Game and Fish Department do their job and vote red on this bill," said Senator Dwyer, who argued the department needs authority to manage seasons, limits and methods to reduce disease risk.

Supporters framed the bill as protecting landowner rights and hunting opportunity, especially in areas with limited public…