Anti hunting bill

[Tim Nunan]

Bill Introduced to Ban Trapping Nationwide
View HR 3442: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:h.r.03442:

A bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives would essentially ban trapping across the country.

House Resolution 3442, introduced by Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, and a host of other anti-hunting members of Congress, bans the use of foothold traps nationwide and prohibits the possession of fur derived from an animal caught by that type of trap.

"Congresswoman Lowey is vehemently opposed to trapping and has introduced identical legislation in previous sessions," said Tony Celebrezze, U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance director of state services. "If you ban foothold traps, you are taking away the most highly utilized trapping tool. Trappers and all sportsmen nationwide need to work to defeat this bill and protect their heritage."

House Resolution 3442 would destroy the sport of trapping and the entire trapping industry. The sale of fur, including hats and coats, would be prohibited if there is not proof that it was obtained without the use of foothold traps. Trappers as well as fur manufacturers and distributors would be susceptible to federal charges.

"This bill is bad news for all sportsmen, even if those who have never trapped or never plan to do so," said Celebrezze. "Anti-hunters look to defeat sportsmen one piece at a time and they believe trapping is vulnerable. Sportsmen cannot allow this legislation to get any momentum."

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Take Action! Sportsmen nationwide should contact their U.S. representatives and ask them to oppose HR 3442. Explain that the leghold trap is a valuable wildlife management tool and banning interstate commerce of fur would be detrimental to the economy. To find your congressman and for contact information, call (202) 224-3121 or use the Legislative Action Center at www.ussportsmen.org.