SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5129

As of January 23, 2003

Title: An act relating to body gripping traps.

Brief Description: Repealing provisions concerning body gripping traps.

Sponsors: Senators Swecker, Oke, Roach, Rasmussen and Morton.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Parks, Fish & Wildlife: 1/28/03.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON PARKS, FISH & WILDLIFE

Staff: Genevieve Pisarski (786-7488)

Background: In November 2000 Washington voters approved Initiative 713. The initiative makes it a gross misdemeanor to use any body-gripping trap to capture any mammal or to use a leghold or neck snare trap to capture a mammal for recreation or commerce. It is also illegal to buy, sell, barter, or otherwise exchange the fur of a mammal trapped with a body-gripping trap. Common rat and mouse traps are exempt. The director of the Department of Fish and Wildlife may grant permits to use certain traps in limited circumstances, including protection of public health and safety, and wildlife research.

It is consistent with the requirements of Article 2, Section 41, of the Washington State Constitution for the Legislature to repeal or modify a citizen's initiative after two years.

Summary of Bill: The provisions of Initiative 713 are repealed. It is not unlawful either to use a body-gripping, neck snare, or leghold trap to capture a mammal or to buy, sell, or barter the fur.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 21, 2003.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.