Politics & Government
State Assembly Passes Bill Targeting Bobcat Trapping
The bill proposes a no-trapping zone in the Joshua Tree National Park area.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom's bill focusing on the unlimited commercial trapping of bobcats was passed by the State Assembly earlier this week through a 42-21 vote, according to a statement from the Santa Monica Democrat's office.
“Current California laws treat bobcats with little regard,” said Bloom in a released statement. “Allowing the unlimited take by commercial trappers whose sole purpose is to convert them into high fashion coats is reprehensible and irresponsible and we must put an end to it.”
Assembly Bill 1213, according to Bloom's office:
- Creates a no-trapping zone around Joshua Tree National Park;
- Directs the Fish & Game Commission to create similar no-trapping zones around the State’s national and State parks, conservancies, and other protected areas.
- Requires trappers to obtain the consent of a property owner to trap on private property and directs the commission to set trapping fees at the level necessary to recover state costs associated with bobcat trapping.
Up next for the bill is a trip to the Senate. If passed, it heads to Gov. Jerry Brown's office for final approval.
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