On March 2, the Oregon Senate approved House Bill 4040, which proposes to remove the gray wolf from the state’s endangered list. The vote, 17-11, sends the bill to Gov. Kate Brown for approval.
Gov. Brown has 30 days to decide what to do with HB 4040. Because the legislature approved the bill as an emergency, it would take effect immediately upon her signature. If she does not sign it within the 30-day period, the bill would take effect on April 2, 2016. If the governor vetoes the measure, the House and Senate could override her decision if both chambers muster a two-thirds majority of the vote.
Removing the gray wolf from the endangered list allows Oregon to take management steps to control population numbers and reduce potential conflict with humans and livestock. The Oregon House of Representatives approved HB 4040 33-22 on Feb. 12.
The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission voted to remove the gray wolf from the endangered list on Nov. 9, 2015. Because the commission’s decision is likely to be challenged in state court by animal-rights groups, the legislature approved a change in law to protect the delisting decision.
Oregon sportsmen should contact Gov. Kate Brown’s office at (503) 378-3111. Ask the governor to protect the scientific management of Oregon wildlife by signing HB 4040.
