Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB34

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/23
• Refer: 2/10/23
• Report Pass: 1/18/24
• Refer: 1/18/24
• Engrossed: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/26/24
• Enrolled: 3/19/24
• Vetoed: 3/29/24
• Failed: 5/15/24

Caption

Restrictions on baiting deer in counties based on chronic wasting disease or bovine tuberculosis.

Impact

This change could significantly impact wildlife management practices in Wisconsin by limiting the extent of baiting prohibitions. By allowing the DNR to lift baiting bans in counties where the disease has only been quarantined in captive facilities, the bill aims to balance wildlife health concerns with hunting practices. Proponents argue that it would allow hunters and landowners greater flexibility in managing deer populations while still maintaining vigilance against CWD and bovine TB.

Summary

Assembly Bill 34 seeks to amend existing regulations regarding the baiting of deer in counties affected by chronic wasting disease (CWD) and bovine tuberculosis (bovine TB) in Wisconsin. Currently, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) enforces regulations that ban baiting in any county with confirmed positive cases in either captive or free-roaming animals. AB34 changes this by stipulating that such prohibitions must be based on confirmed positive tests found solely in free-roaming animals, thereby potentially easing restrictions in areas adjacent to confirmed cases in captive animals.

Contention

However, the bill has faced opposition from certain stakeholders concerned about the potential risks of spreading these diseases. Critics argue that easing restrictions could lead to increased transmission risks among deer populations. They emphasize the importance of maintaining strict regulations to protect both local wildlife and the ecological health of the area. The debate illustrates ongoing tensions between wildlife management, hunting traditions, and public health concerns related to animal disease transmission.