Relating to the taking of black bears, gray wolves, and mountain lions, and providing penalties

This bill relates to the taking of black bears, gray wolves, and mountain lions. The bill removes wolves from the definition of “fur-bearing animals”. The bill prohibits a person from taking a black bear, gray wolf, or mountain lion unless such take is otherwise authorized. The bill provides exceptions to the prohibition provided taking pursuant to an exception does not violate federal law. The bill provides additional requirements for a landowner or lessee who is a livestock owner who takes a black bear, gray wolf, or mountain lion when such take is immediately necessary to protect livestock. A person who violates the bill commits an aggravated misdemeanor. An aggravated misdemeanor is punishable by confinement for no more than two years and a fine of at least $855 but not more than $8,540. The person is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $2,000 for each violation with the moneys collected being deposited in the state fish and game protection fund. Additionally, the person shall reimburse the state for the value of the unlawfully taken animal in the amount of $2,500. A black bear, gray wolf, or mountain lion taken in violation of the bill is subject to seizure by the director of the department of natural resources.