Posted by cschmitt on February 13, 1999 at 08:32:17:
This is a major issue in the Northwest. Urban liberals passing anti-hunting laws through the initiative process. We here's one that will likely be overturned. Oregon has a similar laws and elk calves are taking a beating.
by Hal Spencer
The Associated Press
OLYMPIA - After several lawmakers rose to tell alarming stories about cougars tangling with humans, the Senate passed a measure yesterday to reverse a voter-approved ban on using dogs to hunt the big cats.
"One of my constituents called to tell me a cougar . . ate her child's 4-H project," a llama, said Sen. Val Stevens, R-Arlington, who was among the senators who agreed it was time to take steps to control the predatory animals.
The 33-14 vote, which drew criticism from foes on grounds it went against the will of the people, would reverse a portion of Initiative 655, a 1996 citizen initiative that barred hunters from using dogs to track down cougars.
After two years, the Legislature can change such initiatives with a majority vote.
The Senate action did not disturb another section of the initiative barring hunters from using bait stations to attract black bears. .....goes on