Bill > SB5482

This bill amends existing Washington state law regarding hunting practices for black bears, cougars, and bobcats, specifically addressing the use of bait and hunting dogs. The bill maintains the general prohibition on using bait or dogs to hunt these animals, with several important exceptions. These exceptions include allowing state and federal agency employees to use dogs or bait when protecting livestock, domestic animals, private property, or public safety. The bill also permits county agencies to assist state or federal officials in cougar public safety responses with dogs if authorized by the department. Additionally, the bill allows the director to issue permits for scientific institutions to use dogs for pursuit, capture, relocation, or research purposes. The legislation provides a mechanism for the wildlife commission to authorize dog use in specific game management units when addressing public safety concerns related to cougars, but only after determining no other practical alternatives exist. Violations of these hunting restrictions are classified as gross misdemeanors, with significant penalties including hunting license revocation and a five-year suspension of wildlife hunting privileges, with potential permanent hunting license denial for subsequent offenses.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5482&Year=2025&Initiative=false