Dear editor:
Wyoming senators must act decisively to ensure that those who commit blatant acts of animal cruelty face real consequences when they purposefully run over animals. Wyomingites want lawmakers to pass HB0275 into law with amended language that prohibits one from purposely running over animals with snowmobiles or other vehicles.
Two statewide polls have shown strong public opposition to using vehicles to harm wildlife. In fact, a poll by sportsmen found that 75% of respondents believe wildlife should be killed only with a clean, humane shot.
Similarly, a poll commissioned by wildlife advocates revealed that 71% of Wyomingites oppose cruel behaviors associated with vehicular killings.
Passing stronger animal cruelty laws will affirm lawmakers’ commitment to ethical wildlife stewardship, and ensure that our laws align with the values of super majorities of Wyoming’s citizens.
A working group convened to discuss the Daniel, Wyoming incident and find a solution. Then Wyoming Game and Fish Director Brian Nesvik stated: “The activity that gave rise to this working group . . . was not hunting and it was not predator management.” No reasonable person would think that one needs to be able to crush wolves or coyotes to protect farm animals or mule deer.
Boone and Crocket Club defines ethical hunting as not giving the hunter an unfair advantage over his prey. And we all know that wildlife management must be based on science, not thrill killing.
Responsible hunters follow principles of fair chase, ensuring that animals do not suffer unnecessarily. Those who use vehicles to deliberately maim and kill animals are not “sportsmen.” They are extremists acting far outside the norm. They disgrace Wyoming’s proud outdoor heritage.
Furthermore, research consistently shows a strong link between animal cruelty and other violent behaviors, including domestic abuse.
The FBI and other law enforcement agencies recognize that individuals who engage in extreme cruelty toward animals often escalate to harming people. Strengthening our laws is not just about protecting animals—it is about making Wyoming communities safer as well.
Now is the time for lawmakers to take decisive action. We cannot afford to wait for another horrifying incident before making necessary changes to the law. If we want to preserve Wyoming’s reputation, lawmakers must pass HB0275 with amended language.
Sincerely,
Kristin Combs, Wilson
