Maryland House Bill 377 would place a statewide ban on the use of leghold traps and Hawaii Senate Bill 2862 would outlaw all traps for the taking of game animals. Both bills prohibit trapping by the state wildlife agency.

Maryland law currently prohibits trapping within 150 yards of a residence and prohibits leghold trapping in four counties. If House Bill 377 passes, all leghold traps will be prohibited in Maryland. The bill also removes an exemption for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), thereby prohibiting it from using leghold traps for the management of wildlife. This bill will greatly restrict Maryland sportsmen and the Maryland DNR by prohibiting an effective management tool and a traditional part of our outdoor heritage.

Hawaii Senate Bill 2862 not only prohibits Hawaii sportsmen from using traps for the taking of game, it also prohibits the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) from using any traps or snares for animal control. This greatly reduces the DLNR's ability to manage small, fur-bearing animals throughout the state. Senate Bill 2862 is filled with animal rights rhetoric. It would prevent Hawaii sportsmen from enjoying part of their outdoor heritage and places the methods of wildlife management in the hands of legislators instead of professional wildlife managers.

Take Action! Maryland and Hawaii sportsmen should call their state legislators today and ask them to oppose these bills. In Maryland, call (800) 492-7122 to contact your representative and in Hawaii, call (800) 587-0700 to contact your senator. Let them know that trapping is a proven and essential method of effective wildlife management and a popular outdoor activity for thousands of sportsmen.