Hunting Law Passes Committee
Sacramento, Ca — A bill that would outlaw the use of dogs to hunt bears has passed a California Assembly Committee.
It is a proposed law that Tuolumne County leaders are watching closely. Last month the Board of Supervisors sent a letter to Democratic Senator Lieu, who introduced the legislation, arguing that it would significantly reduce bear hunting opportunities, and the revenue the sport generates for Tuolumne County.
The Supervisors argued that the total impact of the loss of revenue, combined with the potential impact of an increased bear and bobcat population, poses not only a negative economic impact, but health and safety concerns as well.
SB 1221 passed the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee this week, a crucial test before moving onto the full Assembly. The law has the backing of organizations like the U.S. Humane Society.