DAVIS INTRODUCES BILL TO IMPROVE WILDLIFE SERVICES PROGRAM - H.R. 6302

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August 21, 2012 (San Diego) – Congresswoman Susan Davis (D-San Diego) has introduced legislation in response to revelations that federal wildlife officials have killed thousands of animals locally without disclosing justifications to the public.

“I closely follow local events and local reporting, so in response to constituent concerns and a series of articles published by Voice of San Diego on the activities of the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Wildlife Services program, I recently introduced the Transparency for Lethal Control Act (TLC Act, H.R. 6302), legislation to require the USDA to publish clear and accessible information about its activities in San Diego County and other counties throughout the country,” Rep. Susan Davis stated in a press release.

H.R. 6302 has been endorsed by the Humane Society of the United States.

The Wildlife Services program is responsible for intervening in situations when an animal is considered a threat or serious nuisance to humans. In some cases, animals are killed to fulfill this mission. In San Diego County, 18,700 animals have been killed since 2005 by federally funded trappers - including some of our region's most iconic animals - and we don't know how or why.

“I believe the killing of animals should not be a routine or reflexive government response. It should only be undertaken, if at all, after careful deliberation and under strict supervision. For that reason, the public and Congress need to have the opportunity for vigorous oversight to ensure that the USDA is acting appropriately and considering all cheaper and more humane alternatives,” David concluded.
 


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