BILL REQ. #:  H-1283.2 

Read first time 02/04/11.   Referred to Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources.

     AN ACT Relating to programs for the relocation of large carnivores; and amending RCW 77.12.035.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

Sec. 1   RCW 77.12.035 and 2000 c 107 s 211 are each amended to read as follows:
     (1) The commission shall protect grizzly bears and develop management programs on publicly owned lands that will encourage the natural regeneration of grizzly bears in areas with suitable habitat. Grizzly bears shall not be transplanted or introduced into the state. Only grizzly bears that are native to Washington ((state)) may be utilized by the department for management programs. The department is directed to fully participate in all discussions and negotiations with federal and state agencies relating to grizzly bear management and shall fully communicate, support, and implement the policies of this section.
     (2) Any capture and relocation of grizzly bears, wolves, or cougars, whether done for population management or public safety concerns, must be conducted consistent with a program that provides for captured animals to be distributed upon release in the state's various natural area preserves created in chapter 79.70 RCW and natural resources conservation areas created in chapter 79.71 RCW equally on both sides of the crest of the Cascade mountains.