House passes bill allowing protected wildlife to be taken in defense of human life

The Utah House on Feb. 9 passed House Bill 177, a measure that clarifies that protected wildlife may be taken when it endangers human life.

Representative Bill Wright, sponsor of H.B. 177, told colleagues the bill would allow action when wildlife—particularly cougars and bears—threatens people. Wright and other proponents cited recent local incidents (including testimony from George Gadd, who described a bear attack on a family member and resulting medical costs) to argue the bill sends a message that human life can be defended.

Opponents, including Representative Allen C. Ruston, questioned whether the Legislature should override the existing authority of the Game and Fish board and whether prosecutions for obvious self-defense have been a problem that needs statutory change. Ruston argued the bill may amount to micromanaging the wildlife board and that prosecutions for clear defensive actions are rare.

Representative Wright and supporters said the bill does not remove authority from the Division of Wildlife Resources; rather, it clarifies that people may protect themselves and requires reporting and investigatory provisions. After floor debate and a roll-call vote read aloud in the chamber, the clerk announced H.B. 177 passed (tally read in the transcript as 48 affirmative and 21 negative) and the measure was referred to the Senate for further consideration.

The bill will now be transmitted to the Senate and, if enacted there, will alter statutory language governing the taking of protected species when human life is at risk.