Alert: HB544/HB545 Wolf Depredation Acct (Feb 21st)
Two pieces of legislation have been introduced, and are currently pending a hearing in the House Resources and Conservation Committee. HB544 would create a wolf depredation account with specific division and use however calls for no funds to grow the account. This bill is being brought forward by Representative Boyle for the reason that wolves have “created unwarranted hardship and economic harm to wildlife, hunters, outfitters, the Idaho department of fish and game and livestock producers,” as stated in the legislation. Additionally, HB545 was introduced by Representative Gibbs and would be a fee increase for grey wolf tags (from $9.75 to $15.00 for resident tags) to fund the depredation account created by HB544. HB544 Statement of Purpose: The purpose of this legislation is to provide for legislative intent, provide for a wolf depredation account with specific division and use, and declare an emergency. HB545 Statement of Purpose: This bill amends Title 36-416 by increasing a fee on gray wolf tags to fund a depredation account. This bill contains an emergency clause. Take Action Note: Goal #1: Contact Chairman Bert Stevenson and encourage him to hold HB544 and HB545 and to not hold a hearing. Goal #2: In the event that a hearing is scheduled on these two pieces of legislation, contact members of the House Resources and Conservation Committee and encourage them to oppose both pieces of legislation. |