Bill > HB3153

This bill modifies existing Oregon law regarding cougar hunting and management, making several key changes. First, it allows individuals to use dogs to hunt or pursue cougars on private property that they own or on property where they have written consent from the owner. The bill also preserves existing provisions that allow agency employees to use dogs or bait to hunt bears or cougars while acting in their official capacities, and maintains the ability to take wildlife that is causing damage. Additionally, the bill requires the State Fish and Wildlife Commission to assess cougar depredation (damage) to livestock by evaluating reports from affected property owners, establish a threshold for what constitutes "chronic depredation," and take steps to reduce cougar populations—potentially through lethal means—when that threshold is reached. The legislation maintains existing penalties for unauthorized hunting methods, including a five-year hunting license suspension for a first offense and a permanent suspension for subsequent offenses. The bill defines key terms like "livestock" and "bait" to provide clarity in its implementation, and represents an effort to balance wildlife conservation with protecting agricultural interests.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3153