Senators debate who should pay for livestock losses from bears and cougars; bill circled for later action

Senator Money presented a bill authorizing compensation for livestock losses from bears and mountain lions and an appropriation for payments. "This bill... provides certain procedures that an individual has to do to obtain this compensation," he said, explaining the proof-of-loss process and an appropriation figure discussed in committee. The core dispute on the floor concerned funding: whether payments should come from the wildlife restricted account (built from hunting/fishing license fees and permits) or from the general fund.

Supporters of restricted-fund financing argued that hunters and permit-holders have an interest in maintaining game populations and should help cover collateral costs. Senator Beatty told the chamber the predator populations have risen and sportsmen and hunters share responsibility. Opponents, including Senator Finlayson and others, warned that the wildlife restricted account is funded by license purchasers for wildlife conservation and recreational access, not to cover broad compensation programs, and that shifting general-purpose costs onto license fees could create a precedent and fiscal strain. Senator Pendleton cautioned that full compensation statewide could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars and urged central funding discussion.

Following extended debate and competing floor motions, the Senate voted to circle the measure for further consideration rather than reach immediate final action.

Next steps: The bill has been circled; floor sponsors and appropriations committees will need to resolve funding source and scope before the bill returns for a vote.