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Senate bans baiting of big game, citing fair-chase and conservation concerns
Summary
Third substitute HB 295 passed the Senate to prohibit baiting of big game and to make adjustments to waterfowl management areas; supporters framed the bill as protecting state wildlife resources and fair-chase principles, while some senators urged rules-board processes be used first.
The Senate passed a third substitute of House Bill 295, which prohibits baiting of big game and makes related changes to wildlife and waterfowl management areas.
Senator Owens, sponsor, said the practice of baiting alters animal behavior, draws animals to private parcels and compromises fair chase and animal welfare. "Really what this bill does is, bans baiting and make some waterfowl management area, adjustments," the sponsor said while explaining the policy rationale.
Some senators asked whether the department's regional advisory council (RAC) and the wildlife board had followed their rulemaking process; supporters responded that the issue had been vetted with sportsmen's groups and wildlife organizations, and that conflicts of interest had prevented a timely board vote, prompting legislative action.
Floor debate included anecdotes of deer being drawn to sites with processed feed and concerns about both wildlife welfare and private-property complications. Proponents noted support from multiple hunting and conservation organizations. The Senate passed the third substitute HB 295 under suspension of rules with the floor reporting 22 yea, 5 nay and 2 absent; the bill will be returned to the House for further action.
