A 1615 Limits the Use of Cruel Traps Near Homes and Schools [2008]

Bill Description: If passed, this bill would ban the use of steel-jawed leghold traps, Conibear traps, and snares within 100 feet of roads, homes, schools, churches, hiking trails, and other settings. The bill also requires the written permission of neighboring residents if traps are set within 500 feet of day care centers, schools, churches, and other locations. Also, signs must be posted on public lands where trapping is allowed.
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Leghold and Conibear traps and snares are arbitrary and antiquated and they represent a threat to public safety. These devices cause immense suffering as the animals they capture may die of dehydration, starvation, or predation from other animals if the trapper fails to check the device soon after the animal stumbles into it. Furthermore, these devices are not species-selective. They are an indiscriminate killing method that sometimes catches and kills non-target animals, including family cats and dogs and endangered species. As a result, this bill will enhance public safety.