Bill > S479

This bill amends Massachusetts' laws to regulate the use of trapping devices to capture beavers and muskrats. It prohibits the use of certain traps, such as steel jaw leghold traps and lethal snares, while allowing the use of box or cage-type traps, as well as "Conibear" style traps, non-lethal cable restraints, and "dog proof" foot encapsulation restraints by state agencies or their agents for specific purposes, like protecting public health and safety or managing wildlife. The bill also establishes an emergency permit process for individuals to temporarily alleviate threats to human health and safety caused by beaver or muskrat activity, and requires permit holders to report information about the animals taken to the state's Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S479