Sportsmen, conservationists, and the average Idahoan seemed outraged at nearly unregulated proliferation of “elk farms” and “shooter bull” operations in Idaho. Many bills were introduced into the Legislature in January, but they all died.
Given the weak bill left, perhaps it is best that it was finally shot down by a bi-partisan coalition of Republicans who wanted no regulation the Democrats who wanted to tame and sweep back the flood of these “farms,” or whatever they are.
Story in the Idaho Statesman. Elk industry won’t face new regulations: Anti-regulation Republicans, Democrats seeking more oversight combine to bottle up measure in committee. By John Miller. Associated Press.
Next up. . . . probably a try at a ballot initiative.
Ralph Maughan
Dr. Ralph Maughan is professor emeritus of political science at Idaho State University with specialties in natural resource politics, public opinion, interest groups, political parties, voting and elections. Aside from academic publications, he is author or co-author of three hiking/backpacking guides, and he is past President of the Western Watersheds Project and the creator of The Wildlife News.
