On Feb. 2, a Virginia legislative panel killed legislation that would have prohibited all steel-jaw traps. The Virginia House Natural Resources Subcommittee voted 4-2 to defeat House Bill 725, which would have charged violators with a third degree misdemeanor.
Trapping is a cornerstone of wildlife management in Virginia and across the country due to its many conservation use, and benefits to infrastructure and public health protection. Trapping helps prevent rabies, flooding and protects nesting birds and endangered species, in addition to its recreational value.
“HB 725 was a bad bill for wildlife and public welfare and safety,” said Dillon Barto, manager of state services at the Sportsmen’s Alliance. “We are grateful that this bill did not advance further and applaud the members of the committee that voted to defeat it.”
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
