Public Comments for 02/02/2022 Agriculture Chesapeake and Natural Resources - Natural Resources Subcommittee
HB111 - Hunting on Sunday; wildlife management areas.
Last Name: Toth Locality: Augusta County

Bill HB111 - please do not support this bill. We are hikers and horseback riders and would like to have Sunday as a safe day to enjoy our hobbies without the worry of hunters in the woods.

Last Name: Harris Locality: Remington

I live across the street from a wildlife management area. Please don't allow hunting on Sunday. It is the only day of the week when there is any peace and quiet for me, my pets and the wildlife during hunting season.

Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Goldman Locality: Cullen,VA

Please reject HB111 and prevent Sunday hunting on WMA's and I do not support Sunday hunting of any game animals on any lands. Aren't 6 days enough and one day for all to rest?

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Bernazani Locality: Leesburg

I think being able to kill deer six days a week is plenty for everyone who hunts. Please give us non-hunters, and the deer we love to watch, ONE day a week to have some peace? I REJECT HB111. Thank you.

Last Name: Baird Organization: Delta Waterfowl Foundation Locality: Glen Allen

Comments Document

Letter attached.

Last Name: Garland Locality: Fairfax County

Please SUPPORT HB111 to allow deer hunting on Sundays in WMAs. Deer hunters provide a valuable service to the environment. It is ignorant and unkind to vilify these sportsmen as cruel, sick people. Many deer hunters donate the animals they kill to Hunters for the Hungry. To those who complain about the noise of gun-shot disturbing their Sunday repose, might I propose they direct their ire against the up to 100 decibel noise from gas leaf blowers whose din is permitted to tear through neighborhoods every day of the year disrupting both sleep and leisure. For those fearing for their safety, deer hunters have strict licensing requirements and are well-informed in safe hunting practices. Accidents involving the public are very rare. Far more accidents are caused by deer-vehicle collisions where Virginia is number 12 in the nation. To those birders so keen to keep out deer hunters, do you realize that deer are literally eating the very habitat birds depend on? Absent the wolf, deer populations surpass the carrying capacity of the land. Bambi is very cute, yes, but he inflicts serious damage on our natural areas. One animal consumes over a ton of vegetation a year, much of it native. Because of excessive deer browse, many forests in the Eastern U.S. are not producing enough new trees. Tree saplings are a deer favorite. Deer also browse heavily on understudy trees - prime bird habitat. Often the vegetation deer removes is replaced by fast-growing invasive plants which provide little value to birds. For the impact of deer on natural areas, see this article from the Virginia Native Plant Society: https://vnps.org/manage-white-tailed-deer-to-protect-our-natural-heritage/ Deer culling is essential to the conservation of natural areas in Virginia. Let's not restrict the opportunities of these who want to help keep Virginia beautiful. Sincerely, Avril Garland, Fairfax County, Va 22180.

Last Name: Garland Locality: Fairfax County

Please oppose this regulation and continue to allow deer hunting on Sundays in WMAs. Deer hunters provide a valuable service to the environment. It is ignorant and unkind to vilify these sportsmen as cruel, sick people. Many deer hunters donate the animals they kill to Hunters for the Hungry. To those who complain about the noise of gun-shot disturbing their Sunday repose, might I propose they direct their ire against the up to 100 decibel noise from gas leaf blowers whose din is permitted to tear through neighborhoods every day of the year disrupting both sleep and leisure. For those fearing for their safety, deer hunters have strict licensing requirements and are well-informed in safe hunting practices. Accidents involving the public are very rare. Far more accidents are caused by deer-vehicle collisions where Virginia is number 12 in the nation. To those birders so keen to keep out deer hunters, do you realize that deer are literally eating the very habitat birds depend on? Absent the wolf, deer populations surpass the carrying capacity of the land. Bambi is very cute, yes, but he also inflicts serious damage on our natural areas. One animal consumes over a ton of vegetation a year, much of it native. Because of excessive deer browse, many forests in the Eastern U.S. are not producing enough new trees. Tree saplings are a deer favorite. Deer also browse heavily on understudy trees - prime bird habitat. Often the vegetation deer removes is replaced by fast-growing invasive plants which provide little value to birds. For the impact of deer on natural areas, see this article from the Virginia Native Plant Society: https://vnps.org/manage-white-tailed-deer-to-protect-our-natural-heritage/ Deer culling is essential to the conservation of natural areas in Virginia. Let's not restrict the opportunities of these who want to help keep Virginia beautiful. Sincerely, Avril Garland, Fairfax County, Va 22180.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1176 to prohibit the use of snare/steel traps of any circumference. Such traps cruelty and indiscriminately harm. Though they may be intended for nuisance animal control, they are equally as likely to kill or maim family pets, birds, game animals. Left unattended, as is required for their effectiveness, results in a horrid capture or death. Other, better, methods are available to protect livestock.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

HB111 - OPPOSE - In our culture, Sundays have traditionally been a day of rest and peace. Both animals and people need and deserve a respite from the noise that blasts of firearms bring to the peace of the natural environments of our wildlife management areas. Allowing hunting in these beautiful areas significantly restricts their use by citizens to hunters only. They should remain accessible to everyone on Sundays, not just those who choose to hunt.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

HB111 - OPPOSE - In our culture, Sundays have traditionally been a day of rest and peace. Both animals and people need and deserve a respite from the noise that blasts of firearms bring to the peace of the natural environments of our wildlife management areas. Allowing hunting in these beautiful areas significantly restricts their use by citizens to hunters only. They should remain accessible to everyone on Sundays, not just those who choose to hunt.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

please oppose allowing hunting on Wildlife Refuge on Sunday. We are avid bird watchers and that is the only day of the week that it is safe to go out without the danger of getting shot.

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brendle Locality: Yorktown

On HB 1247 Contests for killing is a horrible thing for these wild animals who have a right to life! Virginia should not be supporting any such practice as this. We cannot continue to allow this competition of multiple killings! This needs to and now!

Last Name: Calhoun Locality: Marathon

Please consider supporting these bills, most of which are inhumane. Soon most everything will be hunted to extinction.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Leah Bush Organization: 004920414 Locality: New Kent

Animals should never be killed as part of a contest. That is barbaric and brutal. If you are not going to eat it you should not be able to kill it. Stop this horrible practice in Virginia. I live in New Kent County in a rural area. It would be nice not to have gunfire all day Sunday. Sunday is the day of rest. No hunting on Sunday.

Last Name: Chambers Locality: Hanover

I reject HB111 - do NOT support hunting on Sunday. I live in a rural area and frequently hear gunshots while on my property. I love the outdoors and I have a right to enjoy a hike and experience nature and it’s animals that belong to all citizens (not just hunters) without the fear of a stay bullet. For me, this day is Sunday. Pleas keep Sunday a safe day for ALL those to enjoy nature and reject HB 111.

Last Name: Sims Locality: Fairfax

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

HB1074 lenthen time between rabies vaccines .I.e 5-7yrs.Allow for titer tests. 1176 profit snare/metal traps 1200 no toxic sites near any water sources 111 prohibit hunting on Sundays on state or federal lands in VA. These areas are for everyone and we like to walk/ hike in safety and peacefully 1089 I lived in areas that used parquet in HI. This is deadly and must be banned! 1061 Absolutely prohibit the breeding of dogs and cats for exploitation by others 1029 Wildlife corridors save lives both animal and human

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Rivero Locality: Alexandria

HB 1061 Please do NOT breed animals for foreign animal testing. This is a barbaric practice and should be stopped. The tests don't really prove anything anyway, it's all about the money.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: El-Quesny Locality: Fairfax

Please stop this heinous act.

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Sowa Locality: Fairfax

Time for Republicans to do what the DemocRATS were afraid/unable to do and protect the rights of all (domestic and wild) animals by implementing humane laws.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Provenzano Locality: Fairfax County

Please support these bills and bam these barbaric wildlife "management " practices.

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: giauque Locality: fairfax

stop this now!!

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

Last Name: Beery Locality: Roanoke

Allowing Sunday hunting on WMA's is a great start! I am fortunate to live relatively close to a WMA. Allowing Sunday would increase my opportunity to get out and enjoy those areas. There are times when my opportunity to hunt is restricted to the weekends. Weekend hunting, a misnomer, is really Saturday hunting. Adding the Sunday would double my opportunity. This residual blue law needs to go! Please allow Sunday hunting! Thanks

Last Name: Barrow Locality: Lynchburg

Good afternoon, I wish to first thank you for reading my thoughts on these two bills. HB111: As a new Deer Hunter, I find my two greatest barriers are time and locations to hunt. Publicly accessible areas such as wildlife management areas, state forests, and national forests provide locations to hunt. Present hunting regulations allow deer hunting on private land on Sunday. Access to private land as a new hunter is hard to come by. We would all appreciate the opportunity to have more time to hunt during an already short season. I’m asking everyone to support this bill as part of an effort to reduce barriers for new hunters. HB124 I believe this bill is a good idea. New and old hunters can appreciate milder recoil offered by 22 caliber centerfire rifle rounds. Some of these also offer a great deal of ammo that is fairly inexpensive ammo. Mild recoil and cheaper ammo allows for more practice. More practice leads to more humane kills and less lost animals. Additionally, milder recoil cartridges make it easier to introduce younger and small frames folks to hunting. Modern ammunition manufacturing has lead to great increases in capabilities of 22 caliber ammo. Even better with the wording of this bill rimfire cartridges will still not be legal to harvest big game. I believe this is a great bill worth considering in an effort to engage more hunters in conservation.

HB124 - Hunting deer; authorizes use of .22 caliber rifle.
Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Knox Organization: None Private Citizen Locality: Bedford

Comments Document

I am writing to oppose House Bill 124 which would lower the minimum rifle caliber for deer hunting in Virginia. Nearly all US states and Canadian provinces have a minimum caliber limit for deer hunting. In Virginia since the fall of 1957, the minimum caliber for deer hunting has been greater than or equal to 23 caliber. Caliber minimums are established to ensure a humane and ethical deer kill and, as a general rule and within reason, the larger the caliber the more lethal the rifle. I oppose the passage of House Bill 124 for two reasons. First, House Bill 124 does not meet the most basic rule of Common Sense. The first rule of Common Sense states that, if it is not broke do not fix it. Virginia’s current 23 caliber regulation has been in place for the last 64 consecutive years with no problems or issues. It is not broken. It does not need fixed. The second reason I oppose House Bill 124 is that it fails to meet the most fundamental deer hunting ethic -- the ethic to make a single clean kill shot. House Bill 124 would lower the minimum rifle standard, and this will result in more wounded and/or crippled deer. Why would Virginia adopt a bill that will unnecessarily result in more wounded and/or crippled deer being left in the deer woods each fall?

Last Name: Webb Organization: Virginia Citizens Defense League Locality: Beaverdam

VCDL supports this legislation.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

Please vote no on HB 124. .22 caliber rifles are generally marginal for deer hunting and this bill will likely result in a lot of wounded deer. I understand the intent of this legislation is probably to legalize the .223 for deer hunting, but it would also legalize a .22 Hornet for deer hunting which is in no way an ethical choice. Please reject this bill.

Last Name: Sims Locality: Fairfax

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

Last Name: Williams Locality: Botetourt

Please vote no on HB 124. .22 caliber rifles are generally marginal for deer hunting and this bill will likely result in a lot of wounded deer. I understand the intent of this legislation is probably to legalize the .223 for deer hunting, but it would also legalize a .22 Hornet for deer hunting which is in no way an ethical choice. Please reject this bill.

Last Name: Barrow Locality: Lynchburg

Good afternoon, I wish to first thank you for reading my thoughts on these two bills. HB111: As a new Deer Hunter, I find my two greatest barriers are time and locations to hunt. Publicly accessible areas such as wildlife management areas, state forests, and national forests provide locations to hunt. Present hunting regulations allow deer hunting on private land on Sunday. Access to private land as a new hunter is hard to come by. We would all appreciate the opportunity to have more time to hunt during an already short season. I’m asking everyone to support this bill as part of an effort to reduce barriers for new hunters. HB124 I believe this bill is a good idea. New and old hunters can appreciate milder recoil offered by 22 caliber centerfire rifle rounds. Some of these also offer a great deal of ammo that is fairly inexpensive ammo. Mild recoil and cheaper ammo allows for more practice. More practice leads to more humane kills and less lost animals. Additionally, milder recoil cartridges make it easier to introduce younger and small frames folks to hunting. Modern ammunition manufacturing has lead to great increases in capabilities of 22 caliber ammo. Even better with the wording of this bill rimfire cartridges will still not be legal to harvest big game. I believe this is a great bill worth considering in an effort to engage more hunters in conservation.

HB351 - Driving Decarbonization Program and Fund; created.
Last Name: Patwardhan Locality: Fairfax County

I OPPOSE HB 53 and 1301. I SUPPORT HB 141, 508, 523, 715, 1266, and 1350. I don't have a stance on HB 351 or 1267, but I do feel it necessary to point out that a zero-emissions vehicle still drives (no pun intended) horrifically unsustainable land use patters by perpetuating suburban sprawl and can still kill a human being if it collides at 35 miles per hour. There is entirely too much emphasis on electric cars when we need to be shifting our main method of getting around away from the car in favor of walking, cycling, rolling, bussing, and rail.

Last Name: Pender Organization: Chesapeake Climate Action Network Locality: Hampton

Transportation is the largest source of carbon emissions in the state. Noxious exhaust from Virginia’s millions of vehicles disproportionately harms the health of low-income communities. It is crucial for Virginia to adopt zero-emission electric vehicle practices to combat climate change. Electric vehicles lower fuel and maintenance costs, and reduce dependence on imported oil. HB351 will establish a Driving Decarbonization Program and Fund more widespread installation of EV charging across the Commonwealth, including in historically economically disadvantaged communities. This bill would benefit the commonwealth of Virginia and its residents. Hence, CCAN Action Fund supports HB351.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Lopez Locality: Kingsland

Do the right thing

Last Name: Gerena Organization: Drive Electric RVA Locality: North Chesterfield

Drive Electric RVA supports HB 351. While millions of dollars from the VW settlement have been spent by Virginia to install EV charging stations and millions more have been invested by companies like Electrify America and ChargePoint, much of that infrastructure is being concentrated along travel corridors and in highly retailed metro areas. We need to encourage private investment in underserved areas, including rural communities and low-to-moderate income neighborhoods that have relatively less retail development. This will help bring the benefits of transportation electrification to the communities who need it the most but will likely be ignored by market forces. The Driving Decarbonization Program and Fund would contribute to more equitable charging access by reserving about one quarter of annual funding for grants in historically economically disadvantaged communities, as well as offering increased grants of up to 70% of the developer’s non-utility costs for charger installation in these areas.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Throp Locality: Norfolk

Because vehicles generate a large proportion of the greenhouse gasses which are causing our climate emergency, we need to rapidly switch to zero-emission vehicles. I strongly support HB351, which will accelerate the installation of EV charging stations and lead to faster EV car and truck adoption.

Last Name: Patwardhan Locality: Fairfax County

I support HB 1029 and 311, and 323. I oppose HB 189. I have concerns about HB 314 and 491 - namely, why does being "commercially significant" exempt a non-native plant from being deemed a noxious weed? I am also concerned about HB 351. I agree that encouraging motorists to choose electric vehicles is a worthy goal, but I am concerned about the emphasis on simply transitioning to electric cars when cars and the infrastructure they require, well beyond just gasoline, are themselves the problem. It isn't just about emissions, it's about the asphalt - impervious surface that aggravates flooding and heating - required to park a car regardless of how "clean" it is. It's about the unsustainable land use patterns that even clean cars necessitate. Investing in rail, sidewalks, bike paths, and diverse zoning is a far better use of resources than simply putting more electric vehicle charging stations.

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

508 keep our history alive both the good and bad. We, our children need to be taught the truth about US history 479 removal of large and small damns improves the quality of waterways 323 local and sustainable farms are the key to the future of successful farming. Thomas Jefferson believed this 255 dogs and cats should never be used for inhumane research 206 small renewal energy projects should have been implemented decades ago. We are so behind many countries in preserving our natural resources and increasing and implementing renewable energy sources 140 African American gravesites when discovered should be restored and protected as should all of them 1330 Companion animals should be allowed in more place’s especially on public transportation like Amtrak 1301 clean energy= clean air, water, soil, food and this is a human right 1273 I would like to see hunting bears, deer, raccoons, rabbits, coyote, bobcat foxes completely eliminated. They only terrorize wildlife, there is no “sport” in that. 1247 STOP killing contests of any wildlife!!! This is barbaric 1228 Water quality needs to be of the highest standard. It’s a God-given right 1224 if storm water is managed properly we could avoid massive pollution to our rivers and streams , Bays and Oceans

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

HB666 - State park fees; active duty military and veterans.
Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

HB725 - Hunting with steel-jawed traps; prohibition, penalty.
Last Name: Harris Locality: Remington

I live across the street from a wildlife management area. Please don't allow hunting on Sunday. It is the only day of the week when there is any peace and quiet for me, my pets and the wildlife during hunting season.

Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Sherman Locality: Powhatan

Stop the cruelty. Support this bill.

Last Name: Brauninger Locality: Fairfax

It's our duty to protect our animals from cruel and barbaric practices. Hunting with traps that cause excessive pain is horrific, and killing competitions should have no place in a civilized society.

Last Name: Lombardo Locality: Chesapeake

Steel traps are cruel and inhumane. I support this bill .

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Davis Locality: Sauk

Please pass these bills! We need to respect and care for our beautiful wildlife and lands!

Last Name: McCartney Locality: Glen Allen

Steel-jawed leg traps are cruel and should be banned. They are a danger to to people and pets. I support this bill.

Last Name: Lopez Locality: Kingsland

Do the right thing

Last Name: Schatz Locality: Gainesville

Please vote in support of HB1061, HB1175, HB1176, HB1247, HB1313, HB255, HB523, HB725. It is astonishing to me that we as citizens of Virginia continue to treat animals wild and domesticated, in such horrific ways. The practices referenced in these bills are barbaric and have no place in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish there was more publicity about the practices referenced in these pieces of legislation because if there was I am positive the outpouring of support would be so great it would crash your website. Mahatma Gandhi summed it up well when he said "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Please join other states of this great nation in banning such cruel and inhumane treatment of the animals it is our job to protect.

Last Name: ostrolenk Organization: Conserned Voter Locality: Alexandria

Dear Delegates, HB725 would protect wildlife, humans, working dogs and companion animals from steel-jaw traps, and save countless animals from suffering excruciating pain and death. Science does not support trapping as a legitimate means of wildlife management. Modern wildlife management uses effective nonlethal tools to protect wildlife and livestock. (For more details, review Project Coyote’s letter in support of HB725 signed by leading wildlife scientists that sets forth the relevant science and value-based arguments against trapping. Read more about trapping in Camilla’s Fox’s co-authored book Cull of the Wild here). In the case of coyote “control,” multiple state agencies have echoed the sentiment that it simply does not work to effectively reduce conflicts or populations. Neighboring North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission stated in 2018, “While coyote population reduction (‘coyote control’) is often the first and only management approach that people suggest, it has proven ineffective.” Similarly, in 2016, the Pennsylvania Game Commission stated, “After decades of using predator control (such as paying bounties) with no effect, and the emergence of wildlife management as a science, the agency finally accepted the reality that predator control does not work.” More than 80 countries and several states, including Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, have banned leghold traps because of their inherent cruelty and indiscriminate danger to non-target animals. Steel jaw traps are dangerous and inhumane — there have been incidents reported in Virginia of illegal trapping that caused a raccoon to suffer for a week in a trap. A similar incident involved a fox who lost two toes. Banning steel-jaw leghold traps will greatly reduce needless animal pain and suffering. Thank you for your consideration, Michael

Last Name: Ring Organization: Veterans for Mustangs Locality: Radford

1247: Bobcats, Coyotes and Foxes are targeted in killing contest and the problem is there's no reason for it. What's the purpose for paying people to kill as many animals as possible? Other than money, why do it? Those animals are no threat, and actually are vital for an ecosystem that real hunters who hunt for food like myself, need. I see no benefit, for our society, for our environment, nor for Public image in killing as many animals as possible. We should take from the land just what we need, nothing more. 725: this is just barbaric and unnecessary. If you want to hunt, do what I do and. go catch hunt the animal that you need . Responsible hunting means only taking from the land what you need. I think a steel trap is just lazy and causes unnecessarily suffering that again..is pointless. Furthermore... Steel traps will catch anything that steps on them.. that's including hunting dogs (happened to my buddy) and humans. And again .. why? There's no compelling need to have these.

Last Name: Cameron Ring Organization: Veterans for Mustangs Locality: Radford

1247: Bobcats, Coyotes and Foxes are targeted in killing contest and the problem is there's no reason for it. What's the purpose for paying people to kill as many animals as possible? Other than money, why do it? Those animals are no threat, and actually are vital for an ecosystem that real hunters who hunt for food like myself, need. I see no benefit, for our society, for our environment, nor for Public image in killing as many animals as possible. We should take from the land just what we need, nothing more. 725: this is just barbaric and unnecessary. If you want to hunt, do what I do and. go catch hunt the animal that you need . Responsible hunting means only taking from the land what you need. I think a steel trap is just lazy and causes unnecessarily suffering that again..is pointless. Furthermore... Steel traps will catch anything that steps on them.. that's including hunting dogs (happened to my buddy) and humans. And again .. why? There's no compelling need to have these.

Last Name: pearson Organization: The Commonwealth's 26 Mounted Fox Hunts Locality: hume

Some of our Hunts have had Hounds captured in steel jawed traps and were hurt

Last Name: Fischer Organization: N/A Locality: Roanoke

This is Animal Cruelty! In addition to be horrible to animals - the traps endanger small kids, beloved pets, and non-targeted species. Please ban all traps as inhumane. Thank - you,

Last Name: Bowman Locality: Richmond

I urge support of HB 1029, the greatest threat to wildlife is humans, esp autos. I support HB 1061, HB 1350, HB 255, HB 523, we do not need animal research in the form of dogs cats or other larger animals. If Pigs are used (because of their hearts) they should be treated humanely. I am totally for HB 1175, 1176, HB725. Trapping or snaring animals, esp with a steel trap is vicious and cruel. They should be banned. No civilized country does this. Zoos and Petting zoos (HB53) should be prohibited. There is no need for this and exotic animals should be left alone. Besides if someone wants to see an animal, they can go to the internet. I support HB467, owners need to be held responsible. HB1330, why are all dogs and cats not required to be chipped, they should be. thank you regards Gerald Bowman

Last Name: Aguilat Locality: Monrovia

Steel traps are cruel and inhumane. This should be illegal in our day and time. I support this bill and I hope it passes so that we can eliminate torture to our beautiful wildlife.

Last Name: Zanarini Locality: Halifax County

I am writing in support of prohibiting snares and steel jawed traps. This method of capture is cruel and non-target animals are too frequently victims. Additionally, I whole heartedly support the banning of fur bearing killing contests. These contests are not scientifically backed in helping reduce numbers, especially in coyotes where the opposite effect can be seen. They are cruel, needless, and serve only to perpetuate misinformed prejudices.

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

Please support the efforts to protect our wildlife and others that are caught in the horrific and barbaric traps that are used for hunting and killing of these precious beings. Their lives matter to ecosystems and bring balance and harmony to life itself. We need to learn to respect and have compassion for the wildlife that share this Earth with us. We have encroached upon their homes, their lives without any thought as to how it effects them. They struggle to live and survive, to support their families and friends. We have learned so much from them yet we have learned nothing at all, for they are able to coexist and live with others, something I see very little of in our species. The suffering we bring about through these contests, through these traps that are nothing but cruel and are indiscriminate in their targets are a bloodsport that needs to be banned. Nonlethal methods are available to protect wildlife and all those effected. Thank you🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Busby Locality: Thousand Oaks

Please support this bill. Traps are inhumane and indiscriminate methods that maim animals of all kinds. Animals have been known to chew off their own legs to escape! Please eliminate this cruel method of hunting.

Last Name: Groelle Locality: Richmond

Hello, I’m asking you to pass HB725 and prohibit the use of steel-jaw traps in Virginia. There is absolutely no reason to allow the use of these cruel instruments. Research has shown that they are not an effective method of controlling wildlife populations. Rather, they are extremely detrimental to humans and animals alike. Steel-jaw traps do not discriminate in the harm they cause. Countless unintended animals fall victim to them, including other wildlife, livestock, working animals, and beloved pets. I have also read accounts of people who have unknowingly got caught in these traps, and suffered great injuries and pain. Please do the right thing and ban the use of these traps. Thank you, Chelsea

Last Name: Holden Organization: Humane Society of the United States Locality: Richmond

Comments Document

Dear Delegates, I beg you to please support HB 725, HB 1176, and HB 1247 for the sake of innocent, voiceless animals who are suffering from these cruel practices. Regarding HB 725 & 1176, we have found that the use of body-gripping traps (like snares and steel-jawed leghold traps) is not an effective strategy to protect people, pets, or livestock from conflicts with coyotes or other carnivores. HSUS recommends that landowners and ranchers consult with experts about using non-lethal property and livestock protection methods including fencing, guard animals, birthing sheds, and noise and light devices that deter carnivores. If those methods are ineffective, though, Virginia livestock owners can lethally remove problem coyotes or other carnivores from their property at any time, and can engage the services of licensed wildlife damage control operators when necessary. But randomly setting cruel and indiscriminate body-gripping traps in the area will not mitigate conflicts or reduce coyote numbers, and will serve only to endanger the Commonwealth’s pets and non-target wildlife who come across them. With that, regarding HB 1247, wildlife killing contests are absolutely not needed in our community. These contests bring dishonor to our state and the practice of hunting by offering cash and prizes for things such as the most kills, the largest kill, the smallest kill, etc. At these 1-3 day events, hundreds to thousands of animals are killed. These contests are a blood sport and do no favors for the ecosystem. Also, children are commonly present at these contests, witnessing the bloodshed. Events where animals are hurt or killed for prizes and money do not belong in the Commonwealth, or anywhere. The attached fact sheets provide more information on these bills related to trapping and wildlife killing contests. Thank you.

Last Name: Hearst Locality: Roanoke

Dear Members of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee and House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee, As a lifelong Virginian, I support HB725, which would restrict the use of steel-jaw leghold traps, and respectfully request that you vote in favor of this legislation. Steel-jaw leghold traps slam violently any animal who triggers them. HB725 would ban the trapping of any wild animal in the state with any size steel-jawed trap. We should join the 10 (and growing) other states in banning steel-jaw leghold traps because they are unarguably and inherently inhumane, they pose a risk of capturing non-target animals, including both wildlife and pets, and there are less cruel alternative as well as non-trap alternatives to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. I have been lucky enough to reside in all parts of Virginia--being raised (and currently owning a home in) the Appalachian mountains, living with and visiting family in the Virginia Beach region, and going to school in Northern Virginia. This experience lends me to understand Virginians from all corners of the state, and I cannot in my experience come to the conclusion that Virginians are in favor or gratuitous cruelty. Given that there are reliable alternatives to brutally cruel steel-jaw leghold traps, and that public sentiment favors a ban on their use, I respectfully urge you vote to represent Virginians by voting in favor of HB725.

Last Name: DAngelo Locality: Springfield

Please support House Bill 725 (HB725) to ban the use of all steel -jaw traps across the entire state. Thank you, Janet

Last Name: Sturman Locality: Franklin County

HB1247- Delegates, I am a Virginia resident concerned about wildlife killing contests. Please end Wildlife killing contests. There is no scientific evidence killing Coyotes or other wildlife reduces populations or increases populations of game animals like deer or protects livestock. Preventing conflicts by utilizing humane,non-lethal solutions is more effective. Wildlife targeted by contests play an important ecological role in healthy ecosystems. Contests are counter productive to sound management. Eight states have prohibited wildlife killing contests. Americans are demanding an end to this bloodshot immediately! Killing contests are a bloodshot of senseless violence, waste and disrespectful towards wildlife! Killing contests damage the reputation of responsible hunters by violating fundamental hunting ethics. The Bill is not a ban on hunting and does not impact other laws. Virginia's wildlife is managed in trust for all Virginia's to enjoy. HB725- Please outlaw steel-jaw trapping in Virginia immediately. HB725 would protect wildlife, humans,working dogs and companion animals from steel-jaw traps. Science does not support trapping as a legitimate means of wildlife management. In the case of coyote "control",multiple state agencies have echoed the sentiment that it simply does not work to effectively reduce conflicts or populations. More than 80 and several states have already banned leghold traps. Steel-jaw traps are dangerous and inhumane. Banning steel-jaw leghold traps will greatly reduce needless animal pain and suffering. I implore Delegates to enact these Bills and take the right, compassionate actions to protect Virginia's precious wildlife. Thank you for listening.

Last Name: Salan Organization: concerned voter Locality: Alexandria

Dear Delegates, I ask you to support HB725 to protect wildlife, humans, working dogs, and pets from steel-jaw traps. When inadvertently or purposely caught in steel traps, the pain and death for the animal is excruciating. This method of hunting/trapping is inherently cruel and indiscriminate. Science does not support trapping as a legitimate means of wildlife management. Modern wildlife management uses effective nonlethal tools to protect wildlife and livestock. In the case of coyote “control,” multiple state agencies have echoed the sentiment that it simply does not work to effectively reduce conflicts or populations. Neighboring North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission stated in 2018, “While coyote population reduction (‘coyote control’) is often the first and only management approach that people suggest, it has proven ineffective.” Similarly, in 2016, the Pennsylvania Game Commission stated, “After decades of using predator control (such as paying bounties) with no effect, and the emergence of wildlife management as a science, the agency finally accepted the reality that predator control does not work.” More than 80 countries and several states, including Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, have banned leghold traps because of their inherent cruelty and indiscriminate danger to non-target animals. Steel jaw traps are dangerous and inhumane — there have been incidents reported in Virginia of illegal trapping that caused a raccoon to suffer for a week in a trap. A similar incident involved a fox who lost two toes. Banning steel-jaw leghold traps will greatly reduce needless animal pain and suffering and promote more humane management methods and make Virginia a leader in responsible wildlife management.

Last Name: Pedulla Locality: Arlington County

I am urging the natural resources subcommittee to support HB 725 and HB1176. Both of these bills will be an important step in the right direction by putting some limitations on the use of cruel traps in Virginia. Animals suffer greatly when caught in steel job lead traps and or snare traps. Such depraved cruelty must end. Animals, including wildlife, are sentient beings and deserve our respect, protection, and support.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Wright Locality: Franklin

Steel-jaw traps are an incredibly cruel capture method that should absolutely be outlawed. By doing so, you all could save countless animals (wild and domestic) from unnecessary suffering and death. Modern wildlife management uses effective nonlethal tools to protect wildlife and livestock. Please take this opportunity to ban these antiquated weapons of torture. It is simply the right thing to do.

Last Name: Santiago-Ávila Organization: Project Coyote Locality: Madison

Comments Document

On behalf of Project Coyote Science’s almost 1,000 Virginia supporters, Advisory Board members and the undersigned, we express our support for HB725, HB1175 and HB1175 to ban steel jaw traps and snares in Virginia. We support the prohibition of lethal trapping of wildlife for the purposes of recreation, commerce and nuisance/damage control. The signatories are scientists and ethicists who have looked at both types of evidence and arguments.

Last Name: Bernazani Locality: Leesburg

Steel-jawed traps are about the most cruel, inhumane and indiscriminate devices ever vented by humans. I can’t believe they are still even allowed in our beautiful state. Absolutely pass HB725, and impose the highest possible penalties to those who are too lazy and uncaring to even be responsible hunters. Let’s get these Machiavellian instruments of torture out of our state NOW. Thank you.

Last Name: Gonzalez Locality: Lincoln Heights

1176: I support this 1176 bill to end snaring. Poachers scatter snares throughout large swaths of land. They indiscriminately snare wildlife and pets. They are cruel and have an animal in pain for 3 days until they die a cruel death or are used by hunters to bait the suffering creature. This is not hunting, it is lazy deathmines akin of mousetraps. Snares are very difficult to remove once activated. They do not have a place in nature. 725: I support the Ban of steel jawed leg traps. Just like snares, this is cruel and inhumane. Animals are tortured for days. The hunters and poachers that use these have no empathy, they are ok with watching an animal agonize for days, in order to attract more wolves. They shatter legs and can result in either a three legged animal or a dead carcass. Please ban these. 1176: I support this Bill to ban wildlife killings contents or games where wildlife is hunted to be killed in sick and twisted ways like coyote wacking where psychopaths use cars, vehicles, snowmobiles to chase and mow down a coyote or wolf. People that do this are sick in the head and sociopaths. Do not support violence against wildlife. Please educate the benefits of wildlife.

Last Name: M Annunziata Locality: Valley Stream

Traps and Snares must be illegal and abolished - no animal deserves this kind of torture. Just very cruel and inhumane. They are dangerous not only to the innocent animals but can cause harm and death of animals that were not intended to trap, dogs and cats and others. Not to mention humans. Killing Contests are just as evil, and states that allow them are doing it solely for greed. The majority of Americans are against all of this and are tired about not being heard and the only voices that matter are the ones from trappers and hunters! Furthermore it should not be that politicians and wildlife agencies call the shots without consulting real biologists and scientists because they know by killing more coyotes for instance only increases their populations by having bigger litters. Stop the slaughters!

Last Name: Hamburger Organization: Animal Welfare Institute Locality: Washington, DC

Comments Document

Dear Members of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee and House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: The Animal Welfare Institute, on behalf of our members in Virginia, supports HB725, which would restrict the use of steel-jaw leghold traps. We respectfully request that you vote in favor of this legislation. Virginia should join other states in banning steel-jaw leghold traps because: (1) these devices are inherently inhumane; (2) the risk of capturing non-target animals, including both wildlife and dogs and cats, is unacceptably high; (3) there are less cruel alternative types of traps that cause significantly less trauma, as well as non-trap alternatives to mitigate human-wildlife conflict; and (4) these devices have been banned in ten states. For a full discussion of these issues, please see the attached letter. Thank you for your consideration of this bill. If you have any questions or if there is any additional information we can provide, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Johanna Hamburger, Director and Senior Staff Attorney, Terrestrial Wildlife Program, Animal Welfare Institute.

Last Name: Kemp Locality: Emmaus

Thank You for allowing me to support and provide information on HB725 and HB 1176, to end the cruel leg hold traps and snares. Trappers release wildlife back into the wild when an unintended catch is found in their trap. Some of the trappers are carring the SARS-CoV-2 covid virus and transmitting the virus back into the wild. Trappers wear no protective gear that is recommended, the virus is unknowningly passed to the animal or bird, then released into the wild. Infecting wildlife with the covid virus could alter the course of the pandemic. Scientists have evidence that the virus readily spreads to some wildlife including the white-tailed deer. The virus is widespread in the deer population across the country including Virginia. These fndings are quite concerning and could have vast complications on the coronavirus pandemic. Veterinarians at Pa. State University have found active covid virus infections in one third of the deer tested. These deer and other wildlife are becoming a reservoir for SARS-CoV-2 and the animals could carry the virus indefinitely and spread it back to humans periodically. Wildlife is catching the virus from trappers , the virus is mutating and could spill back from animals to humans. The scientists don’t know if wildlife can transmit the virus to grazing livestock. The Center for Disease Control has advised not to handle live wildlife but yet trappers continue to pursue Virginia’s wildlife for entertainment in trapping and penning of wildlife. The cost to Virginia and tax payers would be staggering, if the covid virus is allowed to continue to circulate in Virginia’s wildlife. We must stop trappers from circulating the virus. Virginia’s wildlife is managed in trust for all Virginians and allowing indivuals to wantonly kill wildlife as part of a cruel bloodsport is a grave violation of the state’s duty in this regard.

Last Name: McPhee Locality: Arlington

I urge you to support HB 725. The bill is very simple: it makes it illegal to use steel-jawed traps. These traps can cause extreme suffering before an animal actually dies. They can also capture non-target animals like family pets. Steel-jawed traps are cruel and inhumane, and they have no place in Virginia.

Last Name: Potter Locality: Evington

It is past time to end the barbaric hunting with steel-jawed traps. The American Veterinary Medical Association condemns these traps and has classified them as “inhumane.” This horrific way to kill indiscriminately has been banned in 88 countries. HB725 should pass to stop this cruelty. There are better ways to control a pest population rather than a "land mine" for animals that kills innocent pets in the most painful way possible.

Last Name: Foltz Locality: Spotsylvania

Committee Members, Please reject House Bills 725, 1175, and 1176. Legally set steel jawed traps and snares are valuable tools for trappers to control wildlife populations. DWR regulations regarding use of traps/snares provide adequate safeguards against non-target catches and humane capture of target animals. These bills are an emotional based, rather than scientific based, attack on our trapping heritage. Trappers are stewards of wildlife; controlling predator to prey populations, removing diseased animals from wildlife family units, and reducing predation of domestic animals. DWR controls on the trapping profession ensures wildlife is a renewable resource. Thank you for your consideration of my request. - Art Foltz

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

HB725 SUPPORT These traps indiscriminately kill or maim. Made worse by the current law which requires only daily checking of traps, thus potentially prolonging the agony of the animal caught if not immediately killed. All snare and steel traps should be outlawed in favor of more humane animal control methods.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1176 to prohibit the use of snare/steel traps of any circumference. Such traps cruelty and indiscriminately harm. Though they may be intended for nuisance animal control, they are equally as likely to kill or maim family pets, birds, game animals. Left unattended, as is required for their effectiveness, results in a horrid capture or death. Other, better, methods are available to protect livestock.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Jetkiewicz Locality: Fredericksburg

Snares and steel jaw traps are disgusting. Too many innocent animals are being caught and die horrible deaths. Chewing off legs to get loose. People walking through the woods can get caught too. Make them outlawed and get rid of them. Also animals are not disposable and should never be used for experimenting. Would you like your cat or dog stolen and sold to labs and be blinded or other disgusting testing done on ? Yes there are lots of homeless animals but promote more on neutering or spaying. Stop animal testing please !!

Last Name: Hanrahan Locality: Lorton

I am writing in support of HB725, prohibiting the use of steel-jaw leghold traps. These traps are powered by strong springs that slam shut on an animal and exert excruciating force. Animals caught in steel-jaw leghold traps suffer from torn flesh, cut tendons and ligaments, and broken bones, and can further injure themselves, break teeth, and dislocate joints in their struggle to escape. In addition to the injuries caused by the trap itself, animals can languish and die slowly from shock, dehydration, blood loss, starvation, predation, and exposure to the elements. Because of the cruelty inherent in the use of steel-jaw traps, their use is banned or restricted in several U.S. states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Washington. The European Union has banned their use in Europe as well as the importation of pelts from countries that use them to trap and kill fur-bearing animals. All told, over 100 countries around the world have banned or severely restricted their use. The National Animal Control Association, the American Veterinary Association, and the American Animal Hospital Association have condemned the devices. Steel-jaw traps threaten both target and non-target species. The species most commonly captured in these brutal traps include raccoons, red foxes, coyotes, muskrats, beavers, minks, bobcats, and gray foxes, but the traps are notoriously non-selective, maiming and killing non-target animals such as birds, threatened and endangered species, and even companion animals. Numerous studies have shown that non-target capture is a significant problem associated with the use of steel jaw traps. Both formal studies and anecdotal evidence indicate that for every target animal trapped, between two to three unwanted animals are caught, including family pets. Moreover, these traps do not serve any wildlife management purpose, do not control the spread of disease, and are unnecessary to reduce any wildlife conflict. The balance of equities is clear here: Virginia should disallow the use of these traps.

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

please support HB 725 and prohibit cruel steel traps from hunting. Too many dogs and pets are harmed and the wildlife suffers greatly

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brendle Locality: Yorktown

On HB 1247 Contests for killing is a horrible thing for these wild animals who have a right to life! Virginia should not be supporting any such practice as this. We cannot continue to allow this competition of multiple killings! This needs to and now!

Last Name: Kim Locality: Charlottesville

Please exercise your authority to protect both domesticated and wild animals in The Commonwealth of Virginia. It is our collective responsibility to pursue policies that are ethical and compassionate.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Chambers Locality: Hanover

I strongly support HB725 to ban hunting with steel jawed traps. These are barbaric! An animal struggles in excruciating pain to get free, the steel vise cuts into his or her flesh—often down to the bone—mutilating the leg or paw. Some animals, especially mothers desperate to return to their young, will even attempt to chew or twist off their trapped limbs. Animals often struggle for hours, sometimes days, before they finally succumb to exhaustion, exposure, frostbite, shock, and death. Is this really what we want to allow as a society? Also, these traps kill or mutilate numerous family pets, birds, and even endangered species every year. Please pass HB 725 and prohibit hunting with steel jawed traps in Virginia.

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Christiansen Locality: Centreville

I support this bill prohibiting the use of steel-jawed traps. They are inhumane, indiscriminate, and ineffective.

Last Name: Nehra Locality: Loudoun

This practice simply cannot be allowed in any state, let alone one with such a rich natural history as Virginia. I know I, along with countless other Virginians, refuse to support a government that allows this to occur in my home, let alone supports with my tax dollars. Do better, Virginia.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: hardy Locality: Springfield

We cannot undo most of the damage humans have done so it is urgent to stop harmful behaviors of humans that effect and endanger animals and environments.

Last Name: Boyle Locality: Woolwine

Please support this bill!!!!!

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: Mallard Organization: Mallard Locality: Reston

I wish to encourage support for all legislation that enhances the protections of all animals and improves the quality of life of animals. Additionally, I encourage support for all legislation that is intended to improve our society's dedication and action to reduce the man-made conditions leading to climate change.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Rassier Organization: Retired Locality: Ashburn

1247: The practice of mass slaughter of wildlife for sport is appalling and barberic. There is no science or data to suggest over population of coyotes or fox or any other wildlife which would necessitate the culling of these species in such a horrific and inhumane manner. Leave our wildlife be, for the enjoyment of future generations as well as the balance of eco systems. At the very least hi power scopes, animal calling devices, food baiting, and trail cameras should all be illegal. HB725: This is the very pinnacle of indifference by mankind for pain and suffering of other species. These traps are not checked on a regular schedule and the animal suffer great pain or death.

Last Name: yates Locality: suffolk

please outlaw killing contest, hunting on Sundays and the use of steel-jawed traps

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Holmes Locality: Scottsville

I do not support the breeding of animals for testing or research. I want it banned. I do not support hunting or fishin and I certainly do not support 'hunting games' where vile people who have guns and nothing better to do go out and be a serial killer for a weekend killing animals for some game and a trophy. GROW UP. I do not support traps or the fur trade and want it to be against the law. I want an end to the killing hunting games previously mentioned. I want breeding or selling animals for animal testing and research no matter what that animal is to be against the law and punishment.

Last Name: Moritz Locality: Henrico

Please end these animal cruelty practices!

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: Brown Locality: Roanoke

I'm writing in support of HB1176 and HB725. Trapping is an egregious practice. The vast majority of trapped animals are not killed for food, but rather fuel the global fur trade. In addition to the injuries caused by the trap itself, animals can languish and die slowly from shock, dehydration, blood loss, starvation, predation, or exposure to the elements. Traps also capture protected species, non-targeted animals, such as household pets, raptors, threatened or endangered species, or mother animals with their young. Generally trappers are not required to report their non-target captures, making it impossible to know how many non-target animals are caught or killed in traps each year. Finally, trapping is not justified by science, an effective method for managing wildlife populations, or assist in controlling the spread of disease. Trapping to control nuisance wildlife is unnecessary and cruel. Wildlife conflicts can be resolved by removing attractants and wildlife-proofing places where we don't want them to be.

Last Name: Allen Locality: Fairfax

I support HB 725. Steel-jawed traps are inhumane and indiscriminate in what animals they kill, and turn natural habitats and ecosystems into a minefield. Outlawing these traps will not outlaw hunting of certain carnivore species, will not result in the elimination of game species, and will not prevent professionals from dealing with the rare individual problem animals that may cause depredations of livestock or domestic animals. Rather, this bill will merely prevent wildlife from suffering a cruel, drawn-out, and inhumane death from a steel-jawed trap. Thank you for your service and for the opportunity to provide comment.

Last Name: Crosky Organization: Virginia Animal Owners Alliance Locality: Wythe

I am reaching out to you on behalf of the Virginia Animal Owners Alliance in regards to the current legislative effort to outlaw coyote management practices. We are asking that you please VOTE NO on HB 1247, HB 725, HB 1175, HB 1176, and SB 492. These bills will harm livestock, pets, and citizens if passed into law. The members of VAOA are animal lovers and value the wildlife in the Commonwealth. When there is a conflict, however, we will fight to protect our own animals above all else. Coyotes are predators that prey on livestock and pets and the problems that exist are recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture. Animal activists, however, choose to ignore the threat of a thriving coyote population. Their hashtag, #StopTheKill, fails to recognize the reality of living with coyotes and the damage they cause. This issue also raises financial questions. If these activist groups (which are well-funded) succeed in destroying coyote hunting, will they step up to the plate and reimburse farmers and pet owners when their animals are killed by a coyote? There is also the question of who has practical experience. The Department of Wildlife Resources currently allows a continuous open season for the hunting and trapping of coyotes "except on National Forest lands and Department lands." Farmers and pet owners benefit tremendously from private coyote management and it is essential that these practices continue! There is also the issue of health and safety. Coyotes have no natural predators and are only naturally threatened by the diseases they catch and carry such as rabies and distemper. If the population is not held in check it will only encourage the spread of these diseases. HB 1247 will outlaw predator hunting competitions. The VAOA fought this at the regulatory level last year. The current contests follow all local, state and federal laws and the hunters who participate practice fair chase. In addition, if there are concerns about the disposal of animals, the wildlife department should work with those holding the contests to create a solution or agreement. Banning the contests and caving to the pressure from animal rights groups will ultimately create bigger problems for Virginia. It is essential that the State allows these contests to continue. HB 725 has vague wording and could outlaw foot traps and conibear traps. HB 1175, HB 1176, and SB 492 are seeking to outlaw the use of snares. Coyotes are highly intelligent and it takes skill to successfully hunt a coyote. As for trapping and snaring, there are already extensive laws in place. When used properly, these methods are essential tools in the tool box when it comes to coyote management. This is bigger than the hunting community. This is about preserving livestock and pets in the Commonwealth. This is about protecting the health and well-being of everyday citizens both in rural and suburban areas. Ultimately, this is about how we will respond to animal rights activism and ideology. Please OPPOSE this legislative effort and stand to protect the farmers and pet owners of Virginia. Sincerely, Heidi Crosky Virginia Animal Owners Alliance 276-637-6652 www.virginiaanimalownersalliance.com

Last Name: Aliff Locality: Montvale

Dear Members please reject HB 725 and keep all trapping in its current forms. Predators continue to rise and threaten not only other wildlife but animals used in agriculture. Taking away tools used in managing the predators would not help in any way of population control. I can see this putting more burden and stress on the State Wildlife folks if the public is not allowed to continue doing there part. I Don't want Virginia to lose these types of opportunity's to pass on a skill and tradition to another generation, so please vote no on this Bill. Thank you.

Last Name: Williams Locality: Botetourt

Comments Document

Dear Committee Members, I would like to request that the committee reject HB 725. Trapping, as it is currently regulated in Virginia is consistent with internationally accepted principles of natural resource conservation stipulating the maintenance of essential ecological processes, preservation of genetic diversity, and the continued existence of species and ecosystems. Trapping by licensed members of the public provides an important connection to nature, development of personal skills, increased appreciation and knowledge of wildlife, and an outdoor lifestyle for those citizens through sustainable use of natural resources. Regulated trapping is a vital component to the subsistence and self-sufficiency of some citizens of the Commonwealth.

Last Name: Williams Locality: Botetourt

Dear Committee Members, I would like to request that the committee reject HB 725. Trapping, as it is currently regulated in Virginia is consistent with internationally accepted principles of natural resource conservation stipulating the maintenance of essential ecological processes, preservation of genetic diversity, and the continued existence of species and ecosystems. Trapping by licensed members of the public provides an important connection to nature, development of personal skills, increased appreciation and knowledge of wildlife, and an outdoor lifestyle for those citizens through sustainable use of natural resources. Regulated trapping is a vital component to the subsistence and self-sufficiency of some citizens of the Commonwealth.

Last Name: Beery Locality: Roanoke

Keep trapping legal in all current forms. The state owns the wildlife in the country. Many state wildlife biologist will attest to the fact that the predator concentration is extremely high. Limiting the tools available to contend with this problem is not helpful. For example populations of wild turkeys all over the south are on the decline. There is more than a single reason for this decline, but the increase of nest predators is a real issue. The easiest way to control and manage these nest predators is with traps. We need this management tool available. I want to see Virginia keep a healthy population of wild turkeys. Trapping may at times be instrumental to this goal. There are many for examples where trapping is a very effective and efficient management tool. Keep trapping legal! Thanks

HB1029 - Wildlife Corridor Grant Fund; established, report.
Last Name: Yenyo Locality: Springfield

HB1029

Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Leyen Organization: Virginia League of Conservation Voters Locality: Richmond

The Virginia League of Conservation Voters Supports HB206, HB508, HB1029 and HB1317 HB 206 (Webert) - The legislation establishes reasonable standards within the solar Permit By Rule (PBR) process, recognizing the importance of forests and farmland and requiring mitigation when significant impacts occur. - Mitigation is not limited to onsite and could be met through a variety of means. - The bill also requires VDEQ to include recommendations related to mitigation as part of the agency’s environmental report for projects before the State Corporation Commission. HB 508 (Mullin) - HB508 directs the Department of Historic Resources to develop a program that identifies, publicizes, and educates the public about African American sites related to travel and tourism between 1938 and 1967. - This bill will raise awareness of important historic and cultural resources, and help increase the number of properties identified and saved. HB 1029 (Tran) - By protecting wildlife corridors, we can help wildlife move safely throughout Virginia and maintain critical ecosystem connections. - Virginia is also considered a “High Risk” state for wildlife/vehicle collisions, the 12th most dangerous state in the nation. Crashes on our roads cost Virginians over $533 million every year. - Funding is needed now to put in place wildlife crossing projects that can reduce both the frequency and cost of these collisions. - Creating this fund now will help Virginia access federal matching funds in the new Infrastructure Jobs and Investment Act where over $350 million is being made available for wildlife corridor projects. HB 1317 (Hope) - This legislation directs the Department of Forestry to develop a 10-year statewide urban and community forest management plan that includes tree canopy goals, best management practices, and local guidelines for localities. - This bill combines two consensus recommendations from the report “A Study of Tree Conservation and Preservation in Development”. Prepared by the Institute for Engagement & Negotiation (IEN) at theUniversity of Virginia (UVA) on behalf of the Tree Conservation Work Group. Required by HJR 2042 / SJR 1393.

Last Name: Patwardhan Locality: Fairfax County

I am writing to SUPPORT HB 508 and 1029. Thank you.

Last Name: Dow Locality: GAINESVILLE

I urge you to support HB 1029, which is aimed at protecting wildlife habitat and decreasing wildlife-vehicle collisions across the state. This legislation will establish a grant fund for important projects that will support conservation while improving public safety.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Bowman Locality: Richmond

I urge support of HB 1029, the greatest threat to wildlife is humans, esp autos. I support HB 1061, HB 1350, HB 255, HB 523, we do not need animal research in the form of dogs cats or other larger animals. If Pigs are used (because of their hearts) they should be treated humanely. I am totally for HB 1175, 1176, HB725. Trapping or snaring animals, esp with a steel trap is vicious and cruel. They should be banned. No civilized country does this. Zoos and Petting zoos (HB53) should be prohibited. There is no need for this and exotic animals should be left alone. Besides if someone wants to see an animal, they can go to the internet. I support HB467, owners need to be held responsible. HB1330, why are all dogs and cats not required to be chipped, they should be. thank you regards Gerald Bowman

Last Name: Neil Organization: City of Portsmouth Locality: Hampton

The City of Portsmouth supports this bill. Thank you.

Last Name: Funk Organization: williamhfunk.com Locality: Staunton

Placing corridors of life over or under our surging roadways is simply a no-brainer, a verified and effective method of reducing both human and wildlife fatalities and of saving millions of dollars in taxes and insurance premiums. Especially given the simplicity, ease and lack of expenditure of projects like Buffalo Creek, where a beautifully sited corridor is already in place and requires only a half mile of rudimentary fencing in both directions to become widely effective, it’s difficult to how imagine how informed opposition could be heard. Given Virginia’s healthy bear population, its exploding deer herds and the welcome reintroduction of elk to the Commonwealth, foresighted plans to allow natural wildlife migratory patterns to take place in contained, pre-designated areas are eminently sensible. We’d be stupid, frankly, not to do this. The great writer and naturalist Barry Lopez published a small book a few years ago entitled Apologia, in which he describes his longstanding efforts to remove slain animals (porcupines, raccoons, pronghorns, badgers) from the rural roads of his native Oregon. This helps decrease the number of scavenging coyotes, bears and golden eagles that in performing their duties are often themselves destroyed, but Lopez performs these rituals for other reasons as well. “It is an act of respect,” he says, “a technique of awareness.” Geologists and other scientists are debating a new term for where we are in the world today: the Anthropocene, an earthly eon permanently marked by humanity’s restless urge for global domination. Few items of life today are as necessary and ubiquitous as the automobile, but those open roads we love to traverse are gouged through the only homes of countless species of wildlife. If something as workable, inexpensive and proven as wildlife corridors can save lives, ours and theirs, and perhaps even ameliorate the guilt and shame of vehicular slaughter, there’s not one reason to delay in making our little corner of the Anthropocene a better place. As Lopez puts it, “We treat the attrition of lives on the road like we treat the attrition of lives in war: horrifying, unavoidable, justified. What is to be done with the desire for exculpation?” Now we have our answer. Please do your elected duty and support the health and safety of your constituents by backing any and all wildlife corridor bills.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Staab Locality: Virginia Beach

HB 1029- Please consider creating wildlife corridors for both animal protection, as well as human protection. As ecosystems continue to fragment, wildlife need safe passages across highways, keeping themselves and drivers safe from collisions. This has been done in other states with great success. Thank you.

Last Name: Bernazani Locality: Leesburg

Yes, we need more wildlife corridors. Virginia is teeming with deer, bears, foxes, and many other species, and I’m sick of seeing them dead on the side of highways while driving through our beautiful state. Please pass HB 1029 now.

Last Name: Blackburn Organization: Audubon Society of Northern Virginia Locality: McLean

I am President of the 5000 member Audubon Society of Northern Virginia. ASNV is not concerned only about birds. Our mission is to engage all Northern Virginia communities in enjoying, conserving, and restoring nature for the benefit of birds, other wildlife, and people. As our state becomes increasingly developed, areas where wildlife can thrive are becoming more and more fragmented. Wildlife find it increasingly difficult to find food and suitable places to raise their young. Fragmentation of natural areas also takes a toll on people, as vehicle collisions with wildlife cause huge amounts of property damage each year. Providing corridors where wildlife can travel without risking death or injury as they try to cross busy roads will benefit both wildlife and the people of Virginia.

Last Name: Throp Locality: Norfolk

Yes, create a Wildlife Corridor Grant Fund to help implement Virginia’s Wildlife Corridor Action Plan. It will help reduce the collisions between vehicles & wildlife. It will improve public safety and reduce harm to wildlife.

Last Name: Youngs Locality: Virginia Beach

HB 1029 - We have to protect the environment for wildlife to ensure their survival as it is now against all odds. HB 1035 - Absolutely provide free admittance for veterans. They have lost time with their families and enjoyment of nature. By all means give them free passage to the parks. HB 1061 - We have no right to torture and abuse any animal in the name of science or medicine or cosmetics. Any animal - dog, cat, primate, livestock, end it all now. The Bible says that man has dominion over animals. Dominion is to look after not torture! And all animal testing is horrible torture.

Last Name: Patwardhan Locality: Fairfax County

I support HB 1029 and 311, and 323. I oppose HB 189. I have concerns about HB 314 and 491 - namely, why does being "commercially significant" exempt a non-native plant from being deemed a noxious weed? I am also concerned about HB 351. I agree that encouraging motorists to choose electric vehicles is a worthy goal, but I am concerned about the emphasis on simply transitioning to electric cars when cars and the infrastructure they require, well beyond just gasoline, are themselves the problem. It isn't just about emissions, it's about the asphalt - impervious surface that aggravates flooding and heating - required to park a car regardless of how "clean" it is. It's about the unsustainable land use patterns that even clean cars necessitate. Investing in rail, sidewalks, bike paths, and diverse zoning is a far better use of resources than simply putting more electric vehicle charging stations.

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

Please support this bill. It will save wildlife and it will save human life by reducing collisions with deer and other animals

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Calhoun Locality: Marathon

Please consider supporting these bills, most of which are inhumane. Soon most everything will be hunted to extinction.

Last Name: Baudouin Locality: Falls Church

Please pass HB1029 stopping cruel animal killing contests. It is 2022- we should be better than murdering wildlife just for the sake of killing something. These animals are essential to the ecosystem and need to be left in peace and not barbarically killed for a "prize"

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Sims Locality: Fairfax

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Walker Locality: Charlottesville

HB1029 Dear Delegates, Please provide support for Wildlife Corridors. It makes sense for the safety of the animals, as well as the safety of people. Preventing accidents and the death of innocent animals is a win-win situation. Overwhelmingly, the research shows the effectiveness of Wildlife Corridors. Thank you, Christie Walker

Last Name: Calvert Organization: Virginia Conservation Network Locality: Charlottesville

SUPPORT HB 1029 Over 57 thousand miles of roads carve up our state and make safe passage for wildlife increasingly difficult. By protecting wildlife corridors, we can help wildlife move safely throughout Virginia and maintain critical ecosystem connections. Virginia is also considered a “High Risk” state for wildlife/vehicle collisions, the 12th most dangerous state in the nation. Crashes on our roads cost Virginians over $533 million every year. Funding is needed now to put in place wildlife crossing projects that can reduce both the frequency and cost of these collisions. Overview: HB 1029 creates a Wildlife Corridor Grant Fund. This fund will help implement Virginia’s Wildlife Corridor Action Plan which will recommend a series of high-priority wildlife crossing projects in the fall of 2022. Creating this fund now will help Virginia access federal matching funds in the new Infrastructure Jobs and Investment Act where over $350 million is being made available for wildlife corridor projects. Please support HB 1029 an important investment in safer roads for people and wildlife.

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

HB1074 lenthen time between rabies vaccines .I.e 5-7yrs.Allow for titer tests. 1176 profit snare/metal traps 1200 no toxic sites near any water sources 111 prohibit hunting on Sundays on state or federal lands in VA. These areas are for everyone and we like to walk/ hike in safety and peacefully 1089 I lived in areas that used parquet in HI. This is deadly and must be banned! 1061 Absolutely prohibit the breeding of dogs and cats for exploitation by others 1029 Wildlife corridors save lives both animal and human

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Hansen Locality: Fairfax

Support

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Weldon Locality: Charlottesville

HB 1029, 1035, 1061, 1067, 1074, 1089 are all bills that need to be passed into law. Please take account of my voice in favor of each of these bills that enhances a humane and healthy way of life.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: Linda Locality: Lottsburg Va

No i humane practices should ever be allowed.

Last Name: Courson Organization: Insure Our Future Locality: Centreville

Please outlaw this cruelty to these beautiful creatures and let them live the lives they deserve.

Last Name: El-Quesny Locality: Fairfax

Please stop this heinous act.

Last Name: Freeman Organization: Jessica Freeman Locality: Hopewell

Please protect all animals and ensure there is no animal cruelty. Traps, hunting and any other endeavor that is cruel to animals needs to stop. We are at a tipping point now and the only way out is to promote sustainable plant based agriculture. Animal agriculture is ruining the planet. Hunting is cruel. Animal testing is very cruel. Visit www.caareusa.org for alternatives to animal testing. Please always be kind to animals!

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: Wranek Locality: Lexington

Please end these cruel practices!

Last Name: Mallard Organization: Mallard Locality: Reston

I wish to encourage support for all legislation that enhances the protections of all animals and improves the quality of life of animals. Additionally, I encourage support for all legislation that is intended to improve our society's dedication and action to reduce the man-made conditions leading to climate change.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Zimmerman Locality: Fairfax

We have to stop exploiting animals in these barbaric ways whether for sport or science

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Reilly Locality: Vienna

This is shameful to even need to respond to something like these Wildlife killing contests. I'm ashamed of Virginia and the fact that I reside here. Please, please stop these contests.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Winch Locality: Norfolk

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress.

Last Name: giauque Locality: fairfax

stop this now!!

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Stafford, Fredericksburg

Protection of Land, Water, Air, Soil and all animals is up to us and for future generations a must.

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

HB1112 - Fishing licenses; resident may purchase a license that is valid for multiple years.
Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Bradley Organization: Honorable chairs Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Hansen Locality: Fairfax

Support

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: El-Quesny Locality: Fairfax

Please stop this heinous act.

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Wranek Locality: Lexington

Please end these cruel practices!

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Dillard Locality: Haymarket

Whoever proposed this bill obviously hasn't been to the DMV in a very long time. In some cases its taken me months to get an appointment. What possible connection can DMV have with fishing licenses? Perhaps the sponsor of this bill is prepping the DMV to be responsible for ALL licensing in VA regardless of purpose. Please do not support this nonsense bill.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Forrest Locality: Mathews

DMV has enough things that they can't manage to do correct.. this darn sure isn't something they need to be bothered with. There are enough places , especially with the technology that makes it so easy through the DWR website. Please leave DMV out of this.

HB1175 - Snare traps; prohibition.
Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Sherman Locality: Powhatan

Stop the cruelty. Support this bill.

Last Name: Brauninger Locality: Fairfax

It's our duty to protect our animals from cruel and barbaric practices. Hunting with traps that cause excessive pain is horrific, and killing competitions should have no place in a civilized society.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Lopez Locality: Kingsland

Do the right thing

Last Name: Schatz Locality: Gainesville

Please vote in support of HB1061, HB1175, HB1176, HB1247, HB1313, HB255, HB523, HB725. It is astonishing to me that we as citizens of Virginia continue to treat animals wild and domesticated, in such horrific ways. The practices referenced in these bills are barbaric and have no place in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish there was more publicity about the practices referenced in these pieces of legislation because if there was I am positive the outpouring of support would be so great it would crash your website. Mahatma Gandhi summed it up well when he said "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Please join other states of this great nation in banning such cruel and inhumane treatment of the animals it is our job to protect.

Last Name: Kargel Locality: Denevr

I am writing in support of prohibiting steel and snares jawed traps. This method of capture/hunting is cruel. Non-target animals are too frequently victims and targeted animals suffer in pain. Additionally, I whole heartedly support the banning of fur bearing killing contests. These contests are not scientifically backed in helping reduce numbers, especially in coyotes where the opposite effect can be seen. They are cruel, needless, and serve only to perpetuate misinformed prejudices.

Last Name: Bowman Locality: Richmond

I urge support of HB 1029, the greatest threat to wildlife is humans, esp autos. I support HB 1061, HB 1350, HB 255, HB 523, we do not need animal research in the form of dogs cats or other larger animals. If Pigs are used (because of their hearts) they should be treated humanely. I am totally for HB 1175, 1176, HB725. Trapping or snaring animals, esp with a steel trap is vicious and cruel. They should be banned. No civilized country does this. Zoos and Petting zoos (HB53) should be prohibited. There is no need for this and exotic animals should be left alone. Besides if someone wants to see an animal, they can go to the internet. I support HB467, owners need to be held responsible. HB1330, why are all dogs and cats not required to be chipped, they should be. thank you regards Gerald Bowman

Last Name: Zanarini Locality: Halifax County

I am writing in support of prohibiting snares and steel jawed traps. This method of capture is cruel and non-target animals are too frequently victims. Additionally, I whole heartedly support the banning of fur bearing killing contests. These contests are not scientifically backed in helping reduce numbers, especially in coyotes where the opposite effect can be seen. They are cruel, needless, and serve only to perpetuate misinformed prejudices.

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

Please support the efforts to protect our wildlife and others that are caught in the horrific and barbaric traps that are used for hunting and killing of these precious beings. Their lives matter to ecosystems and bring balance and harmony to life itself. We need to learn to respect and have compassion for the wildlife that share this Earth with us. We have encroached upon their homes, their lives without any thought as to how it effects them. They struggle to live and survive, to support their families and friends. We have learned so much from them yet we have learned nothing at all, for they are able to coexist and live with others, something I see very little of in our species. The suffering we bring about through these contests, through these traps that are nothing but cruel and are indiscriminate in their targets are a bloodsport that needs to be banned. Nonlethal methods are available to protect wildlife and all those effected. Thank you🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Hamburger Organization: Animal Welfare Institute Locality: Washington, DC

Comments Document

Dear Members of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee and House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: The Animal Welfare Institute, on behalf of our members in Virginia, submits these comments in support of HB1175 and HB1176, which would restrict the circumference of snares and the use of snares to trap or kill game animals. We respectfully request that you vote in favor of this legislation. Virginia should enact this legislation because: (1) neck snares are inherently inhumane; (2) the risk of capturing non-target animals, including wildlife, dogs, and cats, is unacceptably high; and (3) there are less cruel alternative types of traps that cause significantly less trauma, as well as non-trap alternatives to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. For a complete discussion of these issues, please see the attached comments. If you have any questions or if there is any additional information we can provide, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for considering this legislation. Sincerely, Johanna Hamburger, Director and Senior Staff Attorney, Terrestrial Wildlife Program, Animal Welfare Institute

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Taylor Organization: Humane Society Locality: Virginia Beach

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Santiago-Ávila Organization: Project Coyote Locality: Madison

Comments Document

On behalf of Project Coyote Science’s almost 1,000 Virginia supporters, Advisory Board members and the undersigned, we express our support for HB725, HB1175 and HB1175 to ban steel jaw traps and snares in Virginia. We support the prohibition of lethal trapping of wildlife for the purposes of recreation, commerce and nuisance/damage control. The signatories are scientists and ethicists who have looked at both types of evidence and arguments.

Last Name: Bernazani Locality: Loudoun county

Snare traps are medieval devices best left in the history books. Virginia is no place for such cruel and indiscriminate methods of killing wildlife. If we MUST “harvest” wild animals, surely we can at least not make them suffer such a horrible fate? Please pass HB 1175 and HB 1176.

Last Name: Potter Locality: Evington

Please prohibit killing contests serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. Pass #1247 to stop this--is is neither sport or science-driven population control. To achieve high kill numbers, some competitors gain unfair advantages over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. Managing a population can be done with science and precision if or when problems arise---but this current wholesale slaughter of 60 "kill as many an possible" contests is unconscionable . It is long overdue to prohibit snares-please pass HB1175 to stop this barbaric practice that traps and kills thousands of innocent pets and unintended wildlife. Human encroachment means animals are driven into areas and if snares are allowed--this cruel "land mine" for innocent animals causes great suffering. Where is the humanity in either of these ways to hunt??

Last Name: Baker Locality: VIRGINIA BEACH

HB 1175 - While I support the need for trappers to clear out unwanted or overpopulated animals, I do not agree that the use of Steel Traps is the best method. Not only is it inhumane, it is too easy for domestic animals and humans to become snared in these traps.

Last Name: Foltz Locality: Spotsylvania

Committee Members, Please reject House Bills 725, 1175, and 1176. Legally set steel jawed traps and snares are valuable tools for trappers to control wildlife populations. DWR regulations regarding use of traps/snares provide adequate safeguards against non-target catches and humane capture of target animals. These bills are an emotional based, rather than scientific based, attack on our trapping heritage. Trappers are stewards of wildlife; controlling predator to prey populations, removing diseased animals from wildlife family units, and reducing predation of domestic animals. DWR controls on the trapping profession ensures wildlife is a renewable resource. Thank you for your consideration of my request. - Art Foltz

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1176 to prohibit the use of snare/steel traps of any circumference. Such traps cruelty and indiscriminately harm. Though they may be intended for nuisance animal control, they are equally as likely to kill or maim family pets, birds, game animals. Left unattended, as is required for their effectiveness, results in a horrid capture or death. Other, better, methods are available to protect livestock.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Jetkiewicz Locality: Fredericksburg

Snares and steel jaw traps are disgusting. Too many innocent animals are being caught and die horrible deaths. Chewing off legs to get loose. People walking through the woods can get caught too. Make them outlawed and get rid of them. Also animals are not disposable and should never be used for experimenting. Would you like your cat or dog stolen and sold to labs and be blinded or other disgusting testing done on ? Yes there are lots of homeless animals but promote more on neutering or spaying. Stop animal testing please !!

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

please support the restriction of snare traps to protect people, children and dogs

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brendle Locality: Yorktown

On HB 1247 Contests for killing is a horrible thing for these wild animals who have a right to life! Virginia should not be supporting any such practice as this. We cannot continue to allow this competition of multiple killings! This needs to and now!

Last Name: Calhoun Locality: Marathon

Please consider supporting these bills, most of which are inhumane. Soon most everything will be hunted to extinction.

Last Name: Kim Locality: Charlottesville

Please exercise your authority to protect both domesticated and wild animals in The Commonwealth of Virginia. It is our collective responsibility to pursue policies that are ethical and compassionate.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: McCarthy Locality: Keswick

Thank you to Delegate Ransone for introducing this important legislation. Please vote in favor of HB1175 and prohibit the use of cruel and inhumane snare traps. Virginia MUST pass any legislation that shows us to be good stewards of the living, sentient beings that are wildlife. We are not in the Stone Age any more and our laws and practices should show that. Thank you.

Last Name: Powell Locality: Irvingtonva

Stop abusing animals, we are supposed to take care of them

Last Name: Chambers Locality: Hanover

I strongly support HB1175 to ban snare traps. These are barbaric! An animal struggles in excruciating pain to get free, the steel vise cuts into his or her flesh—often down to the bone—mutilating the leg or paw. Some animals, especially mothers desperate to return to their young, will even attempt to chew or twist off their trapped limbs. Animals often struggle for hours, sometimes days, before they finally succumb to exhaustion, exposure, frostbite, shock, and death. Is this really what we want to allow as a society? Also, these traps kill or mutilate numerous family pets, birds, and even endangered species every year. Please pass HB1175 and prohibit snare traps in Virginia.

Last Name: Chambers Locality: Hanover

I strongly support HB1175 to ban snare traps. These are barbaric! An animal struggles in excruciating pain to get free, the steel vise cuts into his or her flesh—often down to the bone—mutilating the leg or paw. Some animals, especially mothers desperate to return to their young, will even attempt to chew or twist off their trapped limbs. Animals often struggle for hours, sometimes days, before they finally succumb to exhaustion, exposure, frostbite, shock, and death. Is this really what we want to allow as a society? Also, these traps kill or mutilate numerous family pets, birds, and even endangered species every year. Please pass HB1175 and prohibit snare traps in Virginia.

Last Name: Sims Locality: Fairfax

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Workman Locality: Chesapeake

I feel strongly about banning killing contests of foxes and coyotes along with banning snare traps which mph are cruel and not necessary. Breeders and dealers should be banned from selling cats and dogs for any kind of scientific experiments due the fact that there is technology available that would work just as well.

Last Name: Walker Locality: CHARLOTTESVILLE

HB1175 HB1176 Dear Delegates, Thank you for your careful consideration of both HB 1175 and 1176. Animal traps for hunting or other purposes are cruel and inhumane. There are alternative methods to achieve similar ends without the great suffering caused by traps. Please prevent their use in our state. Thank you

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

HB1074 lenthen time between rabies vaccines .I.e 5-7yrs.Allow for titer tests. 1176 profit snare/metal traps 1200 no toxic sites near any water sources 111 prohibit hunting on Sundays on state or federal lands in VA. These areas are for everyone and we like to walk/ hike in safety and peacefully 1089 I lived in areas that used parquet in HI. This is deadly and must be banned! 1061 Absolutely prohibit the breeding of dogs and cats for exploitation by others 1029 Wildlife corridors save lives both animal and human

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Hansen Locality: Fairfax

Support

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Leishear Locality: Falls Church

Any and all contest hunting should be illegal. No hunter should have the right to go onto another person's land to hunt without written permission from the land owner. No cats or dogs should be sold or bred for the purpose of " research." Please take a note of Dr. Anthony Fauci's unimaginable cruel and painful animal research projects. Snare traps should be illegal unless placed where the hunter will step on it.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: Phillips Locality: Richmond, VA

Please stop hunting animals, breeding animals for research (or in general - adopt!), and other horrific abuse towards innocent creatures!! It is absolutely despicable!

Last Name: Brooks Locality: Danville

I support the passage of this bill.

Last Name: Freeman Organization: Jessica Freeman Locality: Hopewell

Please protect all animals and ensure there is no animal cruelty. Traps, hunting and any other endeavor that is cruel to animals needs to stop. We are at a tipping point now and the only way out is to promote sustainable plant based agriculture. Animal agriculture is ruining the planet. Hunting is cruel. Animal testing is very cruel. Visit www.caareusa.org for alternatives to animal testing. Please always be kind to animals!

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: Wranek Locality: Lexington

Please end these cruel practices!

Last Name: Mallard Organization: Mallard Locality: Reston

I wish to encourage support for all legislation that enhances the protections of all animals and improves the quality of life of animals. Additionally, I encourage support for all legislation that is intended to improve our society's dedication and action to reduce the man-made conditions leading to climate change.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Sowa Locality: Fairfax

Time for Republicans to do what the DemocRATS were afraid/unable to do and protect the rights of all (domestic and wild) animals by implementing humane laws.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Holmes Locality: Scottsville

I do not support the breeding of animals for testing or research. I want it banned. I do not support hunting or fishin and I certainly do not support 'hunting games' where vile people who have guns and nothing better to do go out and be a serial killer for a weekend killing animals for some game and a trophy. GROW UP. I do not support traps or the fur trade and want it to be against the law. I want an end to the killing hunting games previously mentioned. I want breeding or selling animals for animal testing and research no matter what that animal is to be against the law and punishment.

Last Name: Winch Locality: Norfolk

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress.

Last Name: Provenzano Locality: Fairfax County

Please support these bills and bam these barbaric wildlife "management " practices.

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

Last Name: Moritz Locality: Henrico

Please end these animal cruelty practices!

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Stafford, Fredericksburg

Protection of Land, Water, Air, Soil and all animals is up to us and for future generations a must.

Last Name: Chipkin Locality: Stuart

I support HB1175 and HB 1176. The cruel use of steel leg hold traps and snare traps are horrific methods of killing wildlife and pets that have the misfortune to step into them. My own dog was caught in a leg hold trap that was left on my wooded land, probably years ago with the trapper never intending to come back to end the suffering of the animal caught in it. My partner was badly bitten trying to release our dog's foot as he screamed in pain. Surely, we can come up with better ways of removing animals, such as humane traps, and protecting our animals with proper fencing and management. These outdated traps are a testament to our lack of empathy and our unwillingness to be responsible stewards of our land and livestock.

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

Last Name: Crosky Organization: Virginia Animal Owners Alliance Locality: Wythe

I am reaching out to you on behalf of the Virginia Animal Owners Alliance in regards to the current legislative effort to outlaw coyote management practices. We are asking that you please VOTE NO on HB 1247, HB 725, HB 1175, HB 1176, and SB 492. These bills will harm livestock, pets, and citizens if passed into law. The members of VAOA are animal lovers and value the wildlife in the Commonwealth. When there is a conflict, however, we will fight to protect our own animals above all else. Coyotes are predators that prey on livestock and pets and the problems that exist are recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture. Animal activists, however, choose to ignore the threat of a thriving coyote population. Their hashtag, #StopTheKill, fails to recognize the reality of living with coyotes and the damage they cause. This issue also raises financial questions. If these activist groups (which are well-funded) succeed in destroying coyote hunting, will they step up to the plate and reimburse farmers and pet owners when their animals are killed by a coyote? There is also the question of who has practical experience. The Department of Wildlife Resources currently allows a continuous open season for the hunting and trapping of coyotes "except on National Forest lands and Department lands." Farmers and pet owners benefit tremendously from private coyote management and it is essential that these practices continue! There is also the issue of health and safety. Coyotes have no natural predators and are only naturally threatened by the diseases they catch and carry such as rabies and distemper. If the population is not held in check it will only encourage the spread of these diseases. HB 1247 will outlaw predator hunting competitions. The VAOA fought this at the regulatory level last year. The current contests follow all local, state and federal laws and the hunters who participate practice fair chase. In addition, if there are concerns about the disposal of animals, the wildlife department should work with those holding the contests to create a solution or agreement. Banning the contests and caving to the pressure from animal rights groups will ultimately create bigger problems for Virginia. It is essential that the State allows these contests to continue. HB 725 has vague wording and could outlaw foot traps and conibear traps. HB 1175, HB 1176, and SB 492 are seeking to outlaw the use of snares. Coyotes are highly intelligent and it takes skill to successfully hunt a coyote. As for trapping and snaring, there are already extensive laws in place. When used properly, these methods are essential tools in the tool box when it comes to coyote management. This is bigger than the hunting community. This is about preserving livestock and pets in the Commonwealth. This is about protecting the health and well-being of everyday citizens both in rural and suburban areas. Ultimately, this is about how we will respond to animal rights activism and ideology. Please OPPOSE this legislative effort and stand to protect the farmers and pet owners of Virginia. Sincerely, Heidi Crosky Virginia Animal Owners Alliance 276-637-6652 www.virginiaanimalownersalliance.com

HB1176 - Snare traps; prohibits use of traps to hunt or kill game animals.
Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Sherman Locality: Powhatan

Stop the cruelty. Support this bill.

Last Name: Brauninger Locality: Fairfax

It's our duty to protect our animals from cruel and barbaric practices. Hunting with traps that cause excessive pain is horrific, and killing competitions should have no place in a civilized society.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Davis Locality: Sauk

Please pass these bills! We need to respect and care for our beautiful wildlife and lands!

Last Name: McCartney Locality: Glen Allen

Snare traps are cruel. They are a danger to pets and do not serve any kind of effective wildlife management purpose. I support this bill.

Last Name: Lopez Locality: Kingsland

Do the right thing

Last Name: Schatz Locality: Gainesville

Please vote in support of HB1061, HB1175, HB1176, HB1247, HB1313, HB255, HB523, HB725. It is astonishing to me that we as citizens of Virginia continue to treat animals wild and domesticated, in such horrific ways. The practices referenced in these bills are barbaric and have no place in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish there was more publicity about the practices referenced in these pieces of legislation because if there was I am positive the outpouring of support would be so great it would crash your website. Mahatma Gandhi summed it up well when he said "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Please join other states of this great nation in banning such cruel and inhumane treatment of the animals it is our job to protect.

Last Name: Kargel Locality: Denevr

I am writing in support of prohibiting steel and snares jawed traps. This method of capture/hunting is cruel. Non-target animals are too frequently victims and targeted animals suffer in pain. Additionally, I whole heartedly support the banning of fur bearing killing contests. These contests are not scientifically backed in helping reduce numbers, especially in coyotes where the opposite effect can be seen. They are cruel, needless, and serve only to perpetuate misinformed prejudices.

Last Name: Bowman Locality: Richmond

I urge support of HB 1029, the greatest threat to wildlife is humans, esp autos. I support HB 1061, HB 1350, HB 255, HB 523, we do not need animal research in the form of dogs cats or other larger animals. If Pigs are used (because of their hearts) they should be treated humanely. I am totally for HB 1175, 1176, HB725. Trapping or snaring animals, esp with a steel trap is vicious and cruel. They should be banned. No civilized country does this. Zoos and Petting zoos (HB53) should be prohibited. There is no need for this and exotic animals should be left alone. Besides if someone wants to see an animal, they can go to the internet. I support HB467, owners need to be held responsible. HB1330, why are all dogs and cats not required to be chipped, they should be. thank you regards Gerald Bowman

Last Name: Zanarini Locality: Halifax County

I am writing in support of prohibiting snares and steel jawed traps. This method of capture is cruel and non-target animals are too frequently victims. Additionally, I whole heartedly support the banning of fur bearing killing contests. These contests are not scientifically backed in helping reduce numbers, especially in coyotes where the opposite effect can be seen. They are cruel, needless, and serve only to perpetuate misinformed prejudices.

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

Please support the efforts to protect our wildlife and others that are caught in the horrific and barbaric traps that are used for hunting and killing of these precious beings. Their lives matter to ecosystems and bring balance and harmony to life itself. We need to learn to respect and have compassion for the wildlife that share this Earth with us. We have encroached upon their homes, their lives without any thought as to how it effects them. They struggle to live and survive, to support their families and friends. We have learned so much from them yet we have learned nothing at all, for they are able to coexist and live with others, something I see very little of in our species. The suffering we bring about through these contests, through these traps that are nothing but cruel and are indiscriminate in their targets are a bloodsport that needs to be banned. Nonlethal methods are available to protect wildlife and all those effected. Thank you🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Holden Organization: Humane Society of the United States Locality: Richmond

Comments Document

Dear Delegates, I beg you to please support HB 725, HB 1176, and HB 1247 for the sake of innocent, voiceless animals who are suffering from these cruel practices. Regarding HB 725 & 1176, we have found that the use of body-gripping traps (like snares and steel-jawed leghold traps) is not an effective strategy to protect people, pets, or livestock from conflicts with coyotes or other carnivores. HSUS recommends that landowners and ranchers consult with experts about using non-lethal property and livestock protection methods including fencing, guard animals, birthing sheds, and noise and light devices that deter carnivores. If those methods are ineffective, though, Virginia livestock owners can lethally remove problem coyotes or other carnivores from their property at any time, and can engage the services of licensed wildlife damage control operators when necessary. But randomly setting cruel and indiscriminate body-gripping traps in the area will not mitigate conflicts or reduce coyote numbers, and will serve only to endanger the Commonwealth’s pets and non-target wildlife who come across them. With that, regarding HB 1247, wildlife killing contests are absolutely not needed in our community. These contests bring dishonor to our state and the practice of hunting by offering cash and prizes for things such as the most kills, the largest kill, the smallest kill, etc. At these 1-3 day events, hundreds to thousands of animals are killed. These contests are a blood sport and do no favors for the ecosystem. Also, children are commonly present at these contests, witnessing the bloodshed. Events where animals are hurt or killed for prizes and money do not belong in the Commonwealth, or anywhere. The attached fact sheets provide more information on these bills related to trapping and wildlife killing contests. Thank you.

Last Name: Hamburger Organization: Animal Welfare Institute Locality: Washington, DC

Comments Document

Dear Members of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee and House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: The Animal Welfare Institute, on behalf of our members in Virginia, submits these comments in support of HB1175 and HB1176, which would restrict the circumference of snares and the use of snares to trap or kill game animals. We respectfully request that you vote in favor of this legislation. Virginia should enact this legislation because: (1) neck snares are inherently inhumane; (2) the risk of capturing non-target animals, including wildlife, dogs, and cats, is unacceptably high; and (3) there are less cruel alternative types of traps that cause significantly less trauma, as well as non-trap alternatives to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. For a complete discussion of these issues, please see the attached comments. If you have any questions or if there is any additional information we can provide, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for considering this legislation. Sincerely, Johanna Hamburger, Director and Senior Staff Attorney, Terrestrial Wildlife Program, Animal Welfare Institute

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Staab Locality: Virginia Beach

HB 1176- Please eliminate the use of snare traps in the state of Virginia. There are many unintended victims of these traps, which are outdated, unusually cruel, and cause a great deal of prolonged suffering. Virginia's wildlife deserves better. Thank you.

Last Name: Taylor Organization: Humane Society Locality: Virginia Beach

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Santiago-Ávila Organization: Project Coyote Locality: Madison

Comments Document

On behalf of Project Coyote Science’s almost 1,000 Virginia supporters, Advisory Board members and the undersigned, we express our support for HB725, HB1175 and HB1175 to ban steel jaw traps and snares in Virginia. We support the prohibition of lethal trapping of wildlife for the purposes of recreation, commerce and nuisance/damage control. The signatories are scientists and ethicists who have looked at both types of evidence and arguments.

Last Name: Manning Locality: Virginia Beach

I would like it if you would vote on these laws for the animals. Be their voice.

Last Name: Bernazani Locality: Loudoun county

Snare traps are medieval devices best left in the history books. Virginia is no place for such cruel and indiscriminate methods of killing wildlife. If we MUST “harvest” wild animals, surely we can at least not make them suffer such a horrible fate? Please pass HB 1175 and HB 1176.

Last Name: Gonzalez Locality: Lincoln Heights

1176: I support this 1176 bill to end snaring. Poachers scatter snares throughout large swaths of land. They indiscriminately snare wildlife and pets. They are cruel and have an animal in pain for 3 days until they die a cruel death or are used by hunters to bait the suffering creature. This is not hunting, it is lazy deathmines akin of mousetraps. Snares are very difficult to remove once activated. They do not have a place in nature. 725: I support the Ban of steel jawed leg traps. Just like snares, this is cruel and inhumane. Animals are tortured for days. The hunters and poachers that use these have no empathy, they are ok with watching an animal agonize for days, in order to attract more wolves. They shatter legs and can result in either a three legged animal or a dead carcass. Please ban these. 1176: I support this Bill to ban wildlife killings contents or games where wildlife is hunted to be killed in sick and twisted ways like coyote wacking where psychopaths use cars, vehicles, snowmobiles to chase and mow down a coyote or wolf. People that do this are sick in the head and sociopaths. Do not support violence against wildlife. Please educate the benefits of wildlife.

Last Name: M Annunziata Locality: Valley Stream

Traps and Snares must be illegal and abolished - no animal deserves this kind of torture. Just very cruel and inhumane. They are dangerous not only to the innocent animals but can cause harm and death of animals that were not intended to trap, dogs and cats and others. Not to mention humans. Killing Contests are just as evil, and states that allow them are doing it solely for greed. The majority of Americans are against all of this and are tired about not being heard and the only voices that matter are the ones from trappers and hunters! Furthermore it should not be that politicians and wildlife agencies call the shots without consulting real biologists and scientists because they know by killing more coyotes for instance only increases their populations by having bigger litters. Stop the slaughters!

Last Name: Kemp Locality: Emmaus

Thank You for allowing me to support and provide information on HB725 and HB 1176, to end the cruel leg hold traps and snares. Trappers release wildlife back into the wild when an unintended catch is found in their trap. Some of the trappers are carring the SARS-CoV-2 covid virus and transmitting the virus back into the wild. Trappers wear no protective gear that is recommended, the virus is unknowningly passed to the animal or bird, then released into the wild. Infecting wildlife with the covid virus could alter the course of the pandemic. Scientists have evidence that the virus readily spreads to some wildlife including the white-tailed deer. The virus is widespread in the deer population across the country including Virginia. These fndings are quite concerning and could have vast complications on the coronavirus pandemic. Veterinarians at Pa. State University have found active covid virus infections in one third of the deer tested. These deer and other wildlife are becoming a reservoir for SARS-CoV-2 and the animals could carry the virus indefinitely and spread it back to humans periodically. Wildlife is catching the virus from trappers , the virus is mutating and could spill back from animals to humans. The scientists don’t know if wildlife can transmit the virus to grazing livestock. The Center for Disease Control has advised not to handle live wildlife but yet trappers continue to pursue Virginia’s wildlife for entertainment in trapping and penning of wildlife. The cost to Virginia and tax payers would be staggering, if the covid virus is allowed to continue to circulate in Virginia’s wildlife. We must stop trappers from circulating the virus. Virginia’s wildlife is managed in trust for all Virginians and allowing indivuals to wantonly kill wildlife as part of a cruel bloodsport is a grave violation of the state’s duty in this regard.

Last Name: McPhee Locality: Arlington

I urge you to support HB 1176. The bill is very simple: it makes it illegal to kill or trap game animals using snare traps. Snare traps can cause extreme suffering before an animal actually dies. They can also capture non-target animals like family pets. Snare traps are cruel and inhumane, and they have no place in Virginia.

Last Name: Baker Locality: VIRGINIA BEACH

HB 1176 - This is a bill for hunters or rather to prevent hunters from using snare traps while hunting. Where is the sport in setting a trap. Use your gun or a bow and arrow and give the game animals a chance. This is not a 'Survivor' or 'Naked and Afraid' kind of world we live in.

Last Name: Rowland Locality: Pittsylvannia co VA.

Dear committee members. Please vote no on bills 1176, 1175, and 725. The snares and steel traps when used properly are the most effective way to control predators most of all the coyotes. There are a very few people out there that make trappers look bad. That’s why we as trappers would like you to vote no on these bills and let us continue to control predators in the most effective and humanitarian way possible. Thanks for your consideration. Jeff Rowland pittsylvannia co. Va

Last Name: Foltz Locality: Spotsylvania

Committee Members, Please reject House Bills 725, 1175, and 1176. Legally set steel jawed traps and snares are valuable tools for trappers to control wildlife populations. DWR regulations regarding use of traps/snares provide adequate safeguards against non-target catches and humane capture of target animals. These bills are an emotional based, rather than scientific based, attack on our trapping heritage. Trappers are stewards of wildlife; controlling predator to prey populations, removing diseased animals from wildlife family units, and reducing predation of domestic animals. DWR controls on the trapping profession ensures wildlife is a renewable resource. Thank you for your consideration of my request. - Art Foltz

Last Name: Rowland Locality: Gretna. Va

I’m not in support of the steel jaw traps and snares bill. Do you really want rabies and other diseases spreading thru your counties. Do you want coyotes killing your precious pets and possibly your young children like on occasion out in western states. If these bills get passed just set back and give it time and see what happens.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1176 to prohibit the use of snare/steel traps of any circumference. Such traps cruelty and indiscriminately harm. Though they may be intended for nuisance animal control, they are equally as likely to kill or maim family pets, birds, game animals. Left unattended, as is required for their effectiveness, results in a horrid capture or death. Other, better, methods are available to protect livestock.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Jetkiewicz Locality: Fredericksburg

Snares and steel jaw traps are disgusting. Too many innocent animals are being caught and die horrible deaths. Chewing off legs to get loose. People walking through the woods can get caught too. Make them outlawed and get rid of them. Also animals are not disposable and should never be used for experimenting. Would you like your cat or dog stolen and sold to labs and be blinded or other disgusting testing done on ? Yes there are lots of homeless animals but promote more on neutering or spaying. Stop animal testing please !!

Last Name: Hanrahan Locality: Lorton

I am writing in support of HB1176, which would prohibit the use of snare traps against game animals. These traps cause extreme suffering to an animal, including in some cases, asphyxia and death. Sometimes animals can suffer for hours or days, and suffering may include loss of blood, starvation, shock, and dehydration. Animals trapped by snares are not typically used for food, nor are snare traps an effective method for managing wildlife populations, controlling disease, or reducing conflicts with coyotes. In fact, using snare traps to kill coyotes can stimulate increases in their populations and may lead to an increase in human-coyote conflicts as stable family units are disrupted. While these traps generally target populations of coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and beavers, snare traps are inherently indiscriminate, catching any animal of the right height who passes through them—including pets, endangered species, deer and raptors like eagles and owls. Studies that were performed in the United Kingdom showed that over 40% of all animals captured in snare traps were animals not meant to have been caught at all. The American Veterinary Association has opposed snare traps, calling them “inhumane.” Snare traps have been banned or restricted in seven states: New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Colorado, California, Florida, and Rhode Island – as well as in 88 countries. The European Union has banned the sale of fur from animals who are killed using these cruel devices. Virginia should join these jurisdictions in prohibiting this extremely cruel and indiscriminate form of hunting.

Last Name: Kellogg Locality: Mechanicsville

Snare traps are a cruel and inefficient way of hunting. No animal should be subjected to being caught in these painful devices and left there to suffer. This is a practice that needs to stop.

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

please support the elimination of snare traps to protect people, children and dogs in wild areas. animals do not need to die in this cruel way

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brendle Locality: Yorktown

On HB 1247 Contests for killing is a horrible thing for these wild animals who have a right to life! Virginia should not be supporting any such practice as this. We cannot continue to allow this competition of multiple killings! This needs to and now!

Last Name: Calhoun Locality: Marathon

Please consider supporting these bills, most of which are inhumane. Soon most everything will be hunted to extinction.

Last Name: Kim Locality: Charlottesville

Please exercise your authority to protect both domesticated and wild animals in The Commonwealth of Virginia. It is our collective responsibility to pursue policies that are ethical and compassionate.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Powell Locality: Irvingtonva

Stop abusing animals, we are supposed to take care of them

Last Name: Chambers Locality: Hanover

I strongly support HB1176 to ban snare traps. These are barbaric! An animal struggles in excruciating pain to get free, the steel vise cuts into his or her flesh—often down to the bone—mutilating the leg or paw. Some animals, especially mothers desperate to return to their young, will even attempt to chew or twist off their trapped limbs. Animals often struggle for hours, sometimes days, before they finally succumb to exhaustion, exposure, frostbite, shock, and death. Is this really what we want to allow as a society? Also, these traps kill or mutilate numerous family pets, birds, and even endangered species every year. Please pass HB1176 and prohibit snare traps in Virginia.

Last Name: Sims Locality: Fairfax

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Workman Locality: Chesapeake

I feel strongly about banning killing contests of foxes and coyotes along with banning snare traps which mph are cruel and not necessary. Breeders and dealers should be banned from selling cats and dogs for any kind of scientific experiments due the fact that there is technology available that would work just as well.

Last Name: Walker Locality: CHARLOTTESVILLE

HB1175 HB1176 Dear Delegates, Thank you for your careful consideration of both HB 1175 and 1176. Animal traps for hunting or other purposes are cruel and inhumane. There are alternative methods to achieve similar ends without the great suffering caused by traps. Please prevent their use in our state. Thank you

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

HB1074 lenthen time between rabies vaccines .I.e 5-7yrs.Allow for titer tests. 1176 profit snare/metal traps 1200 no toxic sites near any water sources 111 prohibit hunting on Sundays on state or federal lands in VA. These areas are for everyone and we like to walk/ hike in safety and peacefully 1089 I lived in areas that used parquet in HI. This is deadly and must be banned! 1061 Absolutely prohibit the breeding of dogs and cats for exploitation by others 1029 Wildlife corridors save lives both animal and human

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Monet Locality: Loudoun County

I would like to offer my support to outlaw killing contests of coyotes and other fur bearing animals (HB1247). I would also like to see snare traps for the purpose of hunting or killing prohibited (HB1176). Finally, breeding dogs or cats for foreign animal testing facilities is inhumane, please prohibit (HB1061). We need to protect our animals, not torture them and kill them, thank you.

Last Name: Hansen Locality: Fairfax

Support

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Leishear Locality: Falls Church

Any and all contest hunting should be illegal. No hunter should have the right to go onto another person's land to hunt without written permission from the land owner. No cats or dogs should be sold or bred for the purpose of " research." Please take a note of Dr. Anthony Fauci's unimaginable cruel and painful animal research projects. Snare traps should be illegal unless placed where the hunter will step on it.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: hardy Locality: Springfield

We cannot undo most of the damage humans have done so it is urgent to stop harmful behaviors of humans that effect and endanger animals and environments.

Last Name: Phillips Locality: Richmond, VA

Please stop hunting animals, breeding animals for research (or in general - adopt!), and other horrific abuse towards innocent creatures!! It is absolutely despicable!

Last Name: Brooks Locality: Danville

I support the passage of this bill.

Last Name: Boyle Locality: Woolwine

Please support this bill!!!

Last Name: Freeman Organization: Jessica Freeman Locality: Hopewell

Please protect all animals and ensure there is no animal cruelty. Traps, hunting and any other endeavor that is cruel to animals needs to stop. We are at a tipping point now and the only way out is to promote sustainable plant based agriculture. Animal agriculture is ruining the planet. Hunting is cruel. Animal testing is very cruel. Visit www.caareusa.org for alternatives to animal testing. Please always be kind to animals!

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Perley Locality: Bent Mountain

Research or experimentation of any kind on any animal should be prohibited. Wildlife killing contests should be prohibited as well as the use of snares and traps. Sunday hunting should be revoked.

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: Wranek Locality: Lexington

Please end these cruel practices!

Last Name: Mallard Organization: Mallard Locality: Reston

I wish to encourage support for all legislation that enhances the protections of all animals and improves the quality of life of animals. Additionally, I encourage support for all legislation that is intended to improve our society's dedication and action to reduce the man-made conditions leading to climate change.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Sowa Locality: Fairfax

Time for Republicans to do what the DemocRATS were afraid/unable to do and protect the rights of all (domestic and wild) animals by implementing humane laws.

Last Name: Foote Locality: Williamsburg

There is nothing more cowardly than luring and trapping a helpless animal in order to kill it. That is not sportsmanship. That is barbaric. End trapping!

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Holmes Locality: Scottsville

I do not support the breeding of animals for testing or research. I want it banned. I do not support hunting or fishin and I certainly do not support 'hunting games' where vile people who have guns and nothing better to do go out and be a serial killer for a weekend killing animals for some game and a trophy. GROW UP. I do not support traps or the fur trade and want it to be against the law. I want an end to the killing hunting games previously mentioned. I want breeding or selling animals for animal testing and research no matter what that animal is to be against the law and punishment.

Last Name: Winch Locality: Norfolk

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress.

Last Name: Provenzano Locality: Fairfax County

Please support these bills and bam these barbaric wildlife "management " practices.

Last Name: Moritz Locality: Henrico

Please end these animal cruelty practices!

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Stafford, Fredericksburg

Protection of Land, Water, Air, Soil and all animals is up to us and for future generations a must.

Last Name: Chipkin Locality: Stuart

I support HB1175 and HB 1176. The cruel use of steel leg hold traps and snare traps are horrific methods of killing wildlife and pets that have the misfortune to step into them. My own dog was caught in a leg hold trap that was left on my wooded land, probably years ago with the trapper never intending to come back to end the suffering of the animal caught in it. My partner was badly bitten trying to release our dog's foot as he screamed in pain. Surely, we can come up with better ways of removing animals, such as humane traps, and protecting our animals with proper fencing and management. These outdated traps are a testament to our lack of empathy and our unwillingness to be responsible stewards of our land and livestock.

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

Last Name: Sanders Locality: Richmond County

Snare traps are not humane, nor do they operate as such. This applies to both traps designed to kill and traps designed to immobilize. These torture cables are designed to catch animals by tightening around their neck or leg. The animal is held by the snare until the person who set it returns to kill them, or they die of their injuries (choked to death) or are killed by a predator. Imagine your family pet wandering off to suffer this fate. There are other methods for controlling the coyote population. I support HB 1176

Last Name: Brown Locality: Roanoke

I'm writing in support of HB1176 and HB725. Trapping is an egregious practice. The vast majority of trapped animals are not killed for food, but rather fuel the global fur trade. In addition to the injuries caused by the trap itself, animals can languish and die slowly from shock, dehydration, blood loss, starvation, predation, or exposure to the elements. Traps also capture protected species, non-targeted animals, such as household pets, raptors, threatened or endangered species, or mother animals with their young. Generally trappers are not required to report their non-target captures, making it impossible to know how many non-target animals are caught or killed in traps each year. Finally, trapping is not justified by science, an effective method for managing wildlife populations, or assist in controlling the spread of disease. Trapping to control nuisance wildlife is unnecessary and cruel. Wildlife conflicts can be resolved by removing attractants and wildlife-proofing places where we don't want them to be.

Last Name: Allen Locality: Fairfax

I support HB 1176. Snare traps are inhumane and indiscriminate in what animals they kill, and turn natural habitats and ecosystems into a minefield. Outlawing these traps will not outlaw hunting of game species. Rather, this bill will merely prevent wildlife and other animals from suffering a cruel, drawn-out, and inhumane death from a snare. Thank you for your service and for the opportunity to provide comment.

Last Name: Crosky Organization: Virginia Animal Owners Alliance Locality: Wythe

I am reaching out to you on behalf of the Virginia Animal Owners Alliance in regards to the current legislative effort to outlaw coyote management practices. We are asking that you please VOTE NO on HB 1247, HB 725, HB 1175, HB 1176, and SB 492. These bills will harm livestock, pets, and citizens if passed into law. The members of VAOA are animal lovers and value the wildlife in the Commonwealth. When there is a conflict, however, we will fight to protect our own animals above all else. Coyotes are predators that prey on livestock and pets and the problems that exist are recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture. Animal activists, however, choose to ignore the threat of a thriving coyote population. Their hashtag, #StopTheKill, fails to recognize the reality of living with coyotes and the damage they cause. This issue also raises financial questions. If these activist groups (which are well-funded) succeed in destroying coyote hunting, will they step up to the plate and reimburse farmers and pet owners when their animals are killed by a coyote? There is also the question of who has practical experience. The Department of Wildlife Resources currently allows a continuous open season for the hunting and trapping of coyotes "except on National Forest lands and Department lands." Farmers and pet owners benefit tremendously from private coyote management and it is essential that these practices continue! There is also the issue of health and safety. Coyotes have no natural predators and are only naturally threatened by the diseases they catch and carry such as rabies and distemper. If the population is not held in check it will only encourage the spread of these diseases. HB 1247 will outlaw predator hunting competitions. The VAOA fought this at the regulatory level last year. The current contests follow all local, state and federal laws and the hunters who participate practice fair chase. In addition, if there are concerns about the disposal of animals, the wildlife department should work with those holding the contests to create a solution or agreement. Banning the contests and caving to the pressure from animal rights groups will ultimately create bigger problems for Virginia. It is essential that the State allows these contests to continue. HB 725 has vague wording and could outlaw foot traps and conibear traps. HB 1175, HB 1176, and SB 492 are seeking to outlaw the use of snares. Coyotes are highly intelligent and it takes skill to successfully hunt a coyote. As for trapping and snaring, there are already extensive laws in place. When used properly, these methods are essential tools in the tool box when it comes to coyote management. This is bigger than the hunting community. This is about preserving livestock and pets in the Commonwealth. This is about protecting the health and well-being of everyday citizens both in rural and suburban areas. Ultimately, this is about how we will respond to animal rights activism and ideology. Please OPPOSE this legislative effort and stand to protect the farmers and pet owners of Virginia. Sincerely, Heidi Crosky Virginia Animal Owners Alliance 276-637-6652 www.virginiaanimalownersalliance.com

HB1200 - Landfill siting; proximity to private wells.
Last Name: Ailenei Locality: Chesterfield

Please support HB1200 and protect the public water wells.

Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: DeLauder Locality: POWHATAN

Please pass HB1200

Last Name: Hupp Organization: Whispering Woods Farm Locality: Midland

We have a C&D landfill next to my farm. Agricultural laws in Virginia, DEQ have allowed over 1 million truck loads to be deposited next to our farm. Our wells are being threatened! No one wants to buy my blueberries or my farm products due to the fear that their health will be endangered. My neighbors and I have waged a major battle that has threatened our financial status fighting this battle of 5 years. The dumping is daily, up to as much as 150 trucks a day. Virginia ag laws support landfill farming! It needs to stop. Please protect us! We are in favor of this bill...and more, hopefully.

Last Name: Beaty Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200

Last Name: Tyree Organization: Green Ridge Locality: Cumberland

I am opposing HB1200.

Last Name: Chase Locality: Richmond

My friends in powhatan are at risk of losing their constitutional right to clean water with the installation of a Megalandfill next to their private wells. Please pass bill 1200 to protect their water and stop corporations from poisoning our citizens!

Last Name: Lyons Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200. Thank you.

Last Name: Cox Organization: Casselmonte Farm Locality: Powhatan County

Clean, uncontaminated water is critical to our organic farm as well as our very being. Please force industry to recognize that right and protect our future. I hope you will support HB 1200. Sincerely Bill Cox

Last Name: Trott Locality: Powhatan

Please support this bill. Our livelihood, community and especially our health is a priority for Virginia.

Last Name: Burger Locality: Richmond, VA

Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200

Last Name: Berry Locality: Lunenburg County

Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200, to include private well water into the VA Code. Our county depends on clean drinking private well water.

Last Name: Hurt Locality: MIDLOTHIAN

Please support this bill!!! I am a resident of Powhantan County and have a home in Middlesex County

Last Name: Abraham Locality: Springfield

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200. Our people depend on clean private well water!

Last Name: Nita Hayden Locality: Powhatan

Mr. Ware’s proposal is an important one to protect the way of life and especially the drinking water of all Rural Virginians. The safety of our drinking water is just as important as the public water in the cities.

Last Name: Saakian Locality: Cumberland

My family and majority of families in my county depend on well water and it needs to be protected!!! Please support this bill.

Last Name: Boushie Locality: Orange County, VA

Many residents of Virginia do not have access to public water supplies, but depend on water from private wells. Private wells should be afforded the same protections provided to public water supplies. I support approval of HB1200.

Last Name: Tubb Locality: Glen Allen

I have major concerns with the protection of water source is coming from private wells which need protection from contamination from industrial and agricultural use. Please protect private well water.

Last Name: Clemens Locality: Richmond

"Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200, to include private well water into the VA Code. Our county depends on clean drinking private well water."

Last Name: Myers Organization: Love Central Virginia, Inc Locality: Cartersville

The changes recommended in this bill are not related to any specific project, but protection of Virginia’s environment. Protecting private wells is a concern for all Virginians – not just one locality. The Virginia Department of Health website reports the majority of households in 60 of Virginia’s 95 counties are dependent on private wells. The number of households connecting to private wells is increasing faster than those connecting to public water supply systems. However, there is no protection for private wells as there is for public water. We have only one environment and have a responsibility to protect it – this includes protecting our water supply. There are many things that affect our water supply that we do not have control over such as climate change, floods, and earthquakes. We need to preserve what we have! I thank Delegate Ware and Senator Hashmi for purposing these changes.

Last Name: Mead Locality: Cartersville

As a resident living in close proximity to a site being considered for a landfill I’d like to express my support of HB1200. The health and safety of the community should be the primary concern when considering site options for landfills and HB1200 helps to ensure the rights of citizens are better protected. A healthy Virginia is a better Virginia. I respectfully request your support of HB1200 to protect the rights, health and safety of the citizens of Virginia both for today and the generations to come. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Last Name: Cole Locality: Powhatan, VA

Please support HP1200

Last Name: Leftwich Locality: Powhatan

need protection from all toxics seeping from toxic landfills

Last Name: Snow Locality: Moseley

We have health concerns over Landfills in our area and Powhatan - we deal daily with gases and dont want polluted well water. Our local BOS has no interest in helping citizens and we need help and support HB1200!

Last Name: Clayton Locality: Powhatan

Our wells need protection. Especially shallow wells

Last Name: Crist Locality: Powhatan

It is the job of the Virginia legislature to protect its citizens! By protecting my water you protect me and my family and the citizens of Powhatan Virginia.

Last Name: Sherman Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water. We need as much or more protection as cities. Water affects every aspect of life. It's affect on humans goes without saying. But the same can be said for agricultural activities. Nor should we overlook wildlife. And how do you protect anyone from recreational activities whether it be in a river or a small pond where children fish and swim? We are aware of the damage to the environment and how the environment has been destroyed in the name of "development". We can start stopping this by voting for this bill. It's a win-win vote.

Last Name: DeLong Locality: Powhatan

I support this bill, please pass it!! Protect our wells!

Last Name: CARVER Organization: None Locality: Powhatan

I believe that our private well water should have some protection from a nearby landfill

Last Name: Silberbauer Organization: Powhatan Citizens Alliance Locality: Powhatan

HB1200 offers a similar level of protection for private water wells as the current VA Code does for public water supplies. Most rural residents live where a landfill would be located so it is only logical that some level of protection must be available for these residents. This bill offers that protection.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Powhatan

Animal testing on domestic animals has no place in VA (HB 1061) Private well water should be as much, or more, protected than pubic water supplies (HB 1200)

Last Name: Goodpaster Locality: Moseley

Please require more stringent policies on these landfills.

Last Name: Corker Locality: POWHATAN

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200. I support amending VA Code to include private well water, HB1200.

Last Name: Coplan Locality: Powhatan

Please support HB 1200 and support protections for our private well Walter supply as you would any municipal water supply!!! Thanks! Chris Coplan

Last Name: Kingery Organization: Self Locality: Powhatan

Please support HB1200. Thank you

Last Name: Leatherwood Locality: Powhatan

I would like to write in support of HB 1200. Our family home is on well water as well as we live near the beginning of Fine Creek in Powhatan. The quality of our groundwater is of the utmost importance to my self and my family, as well as thousands of other members of our community. We also live a short 7 miles roughly from the former landfill that was open in Powhatan County until is closure in roughly 1986. We consistently have our well water tested because of this, and my fear is that a new landfill bordering Powhatan County could potentially harm our underground aquifers, streams, and the James River Watershed. Please support and pass this bill to help protect our source of water for hour homes. Kyle Leatherwood Powhatan, VA

Last Name: Broughman Locality: Hanover

I support bill 1200. In rural areas of our counties their are many citizens who have private wells as their only source of water. We protect public water from chemicals. We should also protect our private wells. If we don’t protect the private wells, we are saying that those citizens don’t deserve clean water for their daily lives. Respectfully Sarah Broughman

Last Name: St Ours Locality: Powhatan

I support HB1200

Last Name: buch Organization: N/A Locality: POWHATAN (POWHATAN county)

My husband spent a career as an Environmental Engineer cleaning up ground water contamination. Once contaminated it takes decades to cleanse the ground water even with the latest in treatment technology. This is why I strongly support HR 1200.

Last Name: Carmack Organization: Powhatan County Board of Supervisors Locality: Powhatan

Please support HB1200.

Last Name: Neidigh Locality: Powhatan

Please support HB1200.

Last Name: Good Locality: Powhatan

PLEASE support HB1200 to amend VA Code to include private well water!!! So many of us rely on well water and have a right to clean, safe water for our families

Last Name: Lovell Locality: Powhatan

Please Support HB1200.

Last Name: Hinson Locality: Powhatan County

I grew up drinking delicious, healthy well water. I want my children and future generations to have the same opportunity. Other countries are not blessed with access to good drinking water. It would be a shame if the blessing we already enjoy is destroyed by others and we are left to figure out how to replace a basic necessity.

Last Name: Aliff Locality: Chesterfield (Moseley)

Please, citizens beg that you please put as many regulations as possible on landfills of all kinds. We curre tly fight a daily battle with a newly developed landfill that opened in 2018. They have failed inspections, violations, and are accepting things they should not be per their land use permit. The Skinquarter landfill hinders surrounding residents daily with zero enforcement or liability. Please, control these types of facilities.

Last Name: King Locality: Cumberland

I support HB1200. Our well water should be included in the VA Code. Absolutely.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Kelley Locality: Powhatan

Please I beg, pass this. Living with in a mile to the site, I can not tell you how terrified I am having small children. What will be in their water...what diseases will they die early from because of it? Please treat this as though it was your home and your drinking water.

Last Name: buch Organization: N/A Locality: POWHATAN (POWHATAN county)

As a retired Environmental Engineer with 41 years of professional experience dealing with the contamination of ground water, I am gravely concerned that homeowners like myself who depend on private drinking water wells are afforded no protection under current Virginia Environmental Laws from corporate polluters who operate Mega Landfills. Assembly Bill HR 1200's requirement that landfills must be sited a minimum of one mile from private drinking water wells must become law.

Last Name: Simms Locality: South Chesterfield

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200” amending VA Code to include private well water, Protect our well water. This is a no-brainer.

Last Name: Hills Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water.

Last Name: Hornick Locality: Powhatan

My water is iffy at best and I don’t want this landfill to impact the delicate water system as well as cause more traffic on the roads.

Last Name: Sims Locality: Henrico

Please support HB 1200, which adds an important consideration to siting of municipal solid waste landfills. Recognizing that many of the communities across Virginia use private wells, the consideration proposed in this commonsense bill is an important step for protecting public health. Impacts from landfill leachate are of major concern, and measures that would protect personal water resources are welcome and appreciated. Please support HB 1200.

Last Name: Ponton Locality: Nelson

I support HB 1200

Last Name: North Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200. I urge you to support amending VA Code to include private well water, HB1200. My community is almost entirely dependent on wells for our water and our families and children deserve to have their water protected and for it to be clean. Furthermore, protecting our investment in our homes is also very important to me. Please support this bill.

Last Name: Hanuman Organization: Virginia Community Rights Network Locality: Buckingham

I support HB1200 to add private well water to current VA code considerations when permitting a landfill. Thank you.

Last Name: Schollaert Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chair - please support my community by supporting this bill. Thank you

Last Name: Jerry Locality: Sterling

Honorable Chairs, please support amending VA Code to include private well water, HB1200

Last Name: Durbin Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200 amending VA Code to include private well water

Last Name: Cheatham Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200 to support amending VA Code to include private well water. Thank you.

Last Name: Emily Nott Locality: Powhatan

Please support amending Virginia code to protect our rural citizens on well water! This is extremely important.

Last Name: Stringfield Locality: Powhatan

please support HB1200, our water source should be included in VA Code.

Last Name: Durbin Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200 amending VA Code to include private well water.

Last Name: Hall Locality: Powhatan

Please support HB12OO, Virginia's have right to clean well water.

Last Name: Welsh Iga Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, please support HB1200. There should be almost nothing more important than to codify the right to clean water for all of us and for future generations. There should be NO industry or lobby more important than clean water. Please support amending VA Code to include private well water, HB1200. Thank you. Rachel Welsh Iga

Last Name: Maiden Locality: Powhatan

Please consider Powhatan County when thinking about access to clean drinking water via wells. I don’t think it’s too fair that public water is protected but well water isn’t. Many many people rely on well water, including my family and I.

Last Name: Wright Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, Plase support HB1200.

Last Name: Tavernier Locality: Cumberland

I support HB1200. According to state statistics 85% of Virginia citizens depend on private wells for their water. The state protects public water sources while giving no protection to these individuals. Are we not afforded equal protection under the law?

Last Name: Frank Ronnau Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Chairs, Please support HB1200, to amend the Waste Siting Requirements in VA Code, to include consideration for the citizens on private well water. Our wells rely on the groundwater, and a healthy clean aquifer. It would seem appropriate to include them from the threat of a single landfill liner, less than 100 mil liner. Rural communities who depend on clean drinking water are being targeted, since there are currently protection to minimize the harms to public water works systems and private drinking water is excluded. I am one of the residents, within close proximity to a proposed mega landfill. I live in Powhatan and the proposed Cumberland landfill is 1.7 miles from our water source. This is not a unique situation in VIrginia. Giving consideration to our drinking water is the right thing to do to assure every measure is taken to protect the health and safety of Virginians. I hope you will take into consideration and move HB1200 forward.

Last Name: Ronnau Organization: Virginians for Conservation and Community Rights Locality: Powhatan

Honorable Delegates, Virginians for Conservation and Community Rights, VCCR, has 2300 members in Powhatan alone and work throughout the state of Virginia, Pulaski, Culpepper, Fairfax, Waynesboro, Hampton, Cumberland and Richmond. VCCR would ask that you support HB1200, to amend VA Code to include the consideration of private rural well water, as public water systems are currently included in Waste Management Siting VA Code. Public Water systems are encased in piping versus the dependance of ground water, rivers, streams, creeks and tributaries which supply water to our rural drinking well water. The EPA examined the best available landfill liners, which concluded that brand new state of the art liners of high density polyethylene (HDPE) can be expected to leak at the rate of 20 gallons per acre per day, eve if they are installed wit the very best and most expensive quality control. The rate of leakage is caused by pinholes during manufacture and by holes created when the seams are welded together during landfill construction. In addition to leakage caused by pinholes and failed seams, new scientific evidence indicates that HDPE, the preferred liner for landfills, allows some chemicals to pass through it quite readily. Even an HDPE sheet, 100 mil this, (a tenth of an inch, like a heavy leaf bag), is penetrated by solvents in less than two weeks. This research was based on a 100 mil single liner. Currently, there are proposed landfills, which have submitted their Part A application to VDEQ, using a 60 mil single liner, with 2000 private wells within 2 miles of the project. 66% of rural Virginia depend on private well water. They depend on you to protect our drinking water sources. VCCR and its members respectfully request you pass House Bill 1200 through committee, to allow a first, second and third reading. Victoria Ronnau Executive Director

Last Name: Tyree Organization: Landfill Locality: Cumberland

I am in oppose to bill HB1200

Last Name: Shannon Locality: Chesterfield

Please support House Bill 1200 to amend the current VA Code to include private well water. Every Virginian has a right to clean drinking water. That means ensuring that Virginia does not allow for the construction of projects that will pollute and contaminate our water, including families that access private wells. Building a new municipal solid waste landfill within one mile of any existing private well will cause irrevocable harm. Private well water is vulnerable to toxic leachate, which can leak through a single liner. If these wells are contaminated, there is no fix for this. It will threaten the ability of families to get safe and clean water.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Myers Locality: Cartersville

HB1200 – Support approval of HB1200 as it recommends protection for private wells Protecting private wells is a concern for all Virginians – not just one locality. The Virginia Department of Health website reports that the majority of households in 60 of Virginia’s 95 counties are dependent on private wells. The number of households connecting to private wells is increasing faster than those connecting to public water supply systems. However, there is no protection for private wells as there is for public water. We have only one environment and have a responsibility to protect it – this includes protecting our water supply. There are many things that affect our water supply that we do not have control over such as climate change, floods, and earthquakes. The recommended changes to 10.1-1408.4 of the Code of Virginia are minor when you consider the advantages to our environment and our water supply. Recommend your support for approval of these changes.

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

HB1074 lenthen time between rabies vaccines .I.e 5-7yrs.Allow for titer tests. 1176 profit snare/metal traps 1200 no toxic sites near any water sources 111 prohibit hunting on Sundays on state or federal lands in VA. These areas are for everyone and we like to walk/ hike in safety and peacefully 1089 I lived in areas that used parquet in HI. This is deadly and must be banned! 1061 Absolutely prohibit the breeding of dogs and cats for exploitation by others 1029 Wildlife corridors save lives both animal and human

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: hardy Locality: Springfield

We cannot undo most of the damage humans have done so it is urgent to stop harmful behaviors of humans that effect and endanger animals and environments.

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: giauque Locality: fairfax

stop this now!!

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Stafford, Fredericksburg

Protection of Land, Water, Air, Soil and all animals is up to us and for future generations a must.

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

HB1247 - Coyotes or fur-bearing animals; prohibition of killing contests and competitions.
Last Name: Nowell Locality: Lynchburg

I would like to support a ban on wildlife killing contests in Virginia. As many of your comments have stated, these contests are barbaric and serve no purpose in wildlife management. Encouraging this activity is counterproductive in a society that continues to be influenced by violence. This is competitive killing that goes beyond hunting for sport. Wildlife Management is charged with ensuring the preservation of our wildlife. Killing innocent animals for competition is destructive to our natural ecosystem. As stated in DWR - Conserve and manage wildlife populations and habitat for the benefit of present and future generations.R = The Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is responsible for the management of inland fisheries, wildlife, and recreational boating for the Commonwealth of Virginia. We are leading wildlife conservation and inspiring people to value the outdoors and their role in nature. I urge you to follow the lead of other states and ban these contests in our Commonwealth. Appreciation and respect for nature and wildlife is critical. Killing contests are not the answer to a better society. Please end this cruelty. Thank you. Mrs. Pamela Nowell

Last Name: Connors Locality: Fairfax Station

Wildlife killing contests in Virginia serve NO legitimate wildlife management purpose. The Humane Society of the United States went undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have outlawed killing contests. Virginia needs to do the same.

Last Name: Harris Locality: Remington

I live across the street from a wildlife management area. Please don't allow hunting on Sunday. It is the only day of the week when there is any peace and quiet for me, my pets and the wildlife during hunting season.

Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Dolan Locality: Hanover

I would like to support a ban on wildlife killing contests in Virginia. These contests are barbaric and serve no purpose in wildlife management. In fact, they are destructive to the natural ecosystem and are cruel and inhumane. Animals have the right to live out the lives that were given to them by God the Creator, just as humans do. They deserve to be free to live those lives free of human interference and fear of senseless death in the name of "sport". The people who participate in and enjoy these contests are depraved and in need of serious mental counseling. And in my opinion, people who enjoy this type of behavior can potentially escalate into being dangerous to other human beings as well. Please ban these contests in our great state and end this cruelty, once and for all. Thank you. Mrs. Dolan

Last Name: Woods Locality: Henrico

I am writing to support this bill and urge you to do the same. Animals should not be the targets of competition killing. If mankind will not respect animals on their own, legislators must do it for them. Please support this bill and any others that preserve and protect animals in our beautiful state. Thank you, EW

Last Name: Sherman Locality: Powhatan

Stop the cruelty. Support this bill.

Last Name: Brauninger Locality: Fairfax

It's our duty to protect our animals from cruel and barbaric practices. Hunting with traps that cause excessive pain is horrific, and killing competitions should have no place in a civilized society.

Last Name: Atwell Locality: ALEXANDRIA

This is unnecessary killing of animals for sport. It needs to be outlawed and prosecute the perpetrators.

Last Name: Lombardo Locality: Chesapeake

I support this bill. Our wildlife is critical to maintain our ecosystems.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Davis Locality: Sauk

Please pass these bills! We need to respect and care for our beautiful wildlife and lands!

Last Name: Lopez Locality: Kingsland

Do the right thing

Last Name: Schatz Locality: Gainesville

Please vote in support of HB1061, HB1175, HB1176, HB1247, HB1313, HB255, HB523, HB725. It is astonishing to me that we as citizens of Virginia continue to treat animals wild and domesticated, in such horrific ways. The practices referenced in these bills are barbaric and have no place in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish there was more publicity about the practices referenced in these pieces of legislation because if there was I am positive the outpouring of support would be so great it would crash your website. Mahatma Gandhi summed it up well when he said "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Please join other states of this great nation in banning such cruel and inhumane treatment of the animals it is our job to protect.

Last Name: ostrolenk Organization: Concerned Citizen Locality: Alexandria

Good morning Delegates, Wildlife targeted by contests play an important ecological role in healthy ecosystems. For example, coyotes reduce rabbit and rodent populations, scavenge animal carcasses and increase biodiversity. These contests are counterproductive to sound management. Eight states have prohibited wildlife killing contests. As awareness of these barbaric events spreads, Americans are increasingly demanding an end to this bloodsport. Killing contests are a bloodsport. Killing coyotes for thrills and prizes—with no respect for their intrinsic or ecological value—is senseless violence and waste. This bill is not a ban on hunting and does not impact other laws. Individuals will still be allowed to hunt coyotes and other wildlife according to state laws. Virginia’s wildlife is managed in trust for all Virginians. Allowing individuals to wantonly kill wildlife as part of a cruel bloodsport is a grave violation of the state’s obligations to hold wildlife as a public trust for all citizens. Thank you, Michael

Last Name: Ring Organization: Veterans for Mustangs Locality: Radford

1247: Bobcats, Coyotes and Foxes are targeted in killing contest and the problem is there's no reason for it. What's the purpose for paying people to kill as many animals as possible? Other than money, why do it? Those animals are no threat, and actually are vital for an ecosystem that real hunters who hunt for food like myself, need. I see no benefit, for our society, for our environment, nor for Public image in killing as many animals as possible. We should take from the land just what we need, nothing more. 725: this is just barbaric and unnecessary. If you want to hunt, do what I do and. go catch hunt the animal that you need . Responsible hunting means only taking from the land what you need. I think a steel trap is just lazy and causes unnecessarily suffering that again..is pointless. Furthermore... Steel traps will catch anything that steps on them.. that's including hunting dogs (happened to my buddy) and humans. And again .. why? There's no compelling need to have these.

Last Name: Cameron Ring Organization: Veterans for Mustangs Locality: Radford

1247: Bobcats, Coyotes and Foxes are targeted in killing contest and the problem is there's no reason for it. What's the purpose for paying people to kill as many animals as possible? Other than money, why do it? Those animals are no threat, and actually are vital for an ecosystem that real hunters who hunt for food like myself, need. I see no benefit, for our society, for our environment, nor for Public image in killing as many animals as possible. We should take from the land just what we need, nothing more. 725: this is just barbaric and unnecessary. If you want to hunt, do what I do and. go catch hunt the animal that you need . Responsible hunting means only taking from the land what you need. I think a steel trap is just lazy and causes unnecessarily suffering that again..is pointless. Furthermore... Steel traps will catch anything that steps on them.. that's including hunting dogs (happened to my buddy) and humans. And again .. why? There's no compelling need to have these.

Last Name: Kemp Locality: Emmaus

Most people are shocked to learn that Virginia, the state for lovers, harbors wildlife killing contests. They are a bloodsport akin to dogfighting, cruel and unsporting, transmitting disease from mange to possibly the covid virus. Countless dependent young are orphaned during these events - left to die from starvation and exposure. Killing for fun our precious wildlife that far more citizens of Virginia love to watch. Our wildlife is for everyone, not to be just killed for fun. Participants in these contests are thieves stealing our heritage, unbalancing the ecosystem and sending the wrong message to our children. It is so wrong to imprint on the young people that killing is fun and it doesn't matter about life. The cost to the state is staggering in terms of loss of wildlife, transmitting of disease, toll on the environment, theft of our heritage and the mental development of our young people.

Last Name: Fischer Organization: N/A Locality: Roanoke

STOP THE SLAUGHTER! People who abuse animals will also abuse helpless people, like kids and elders. They MUST be stopped, punished harshly with JAIL, and NEVER allowed near animals again! Healthy ecosystems NEED large predators to keep prey species from overpopulating, overgrazing, causing soil erosion, widespread disease and starvation.

Last Name: Bowman Locality: Richmond

I urge support of HB 1029, the greatest threat to wildlife is humans, esp autos. I support HB 1061, HB 1350, HB 255, HB 523, we do not need animal research in the form of dogs cats or other larger animals. If Pigs are used (because of their hearts) they should be treated humanely. I am totally for HB 1175, 1176, HB725. Trapping or snaring animals, esp with a steel trap is vicious and cruel. They should be banned. No civilized country does this. Zoos and Petting zoos (HB53) should be prohibited. There is no need for this and exotic animals should be left alone. Besides if someone wants to see an animal, they can go to the internet. I support HB467, owners need to be held responsible. HB1330, why are all dogs and cats not required to be chipped, they should be. thank you regards Gerald Bowman

Last Name: Aguilar Locality: Monrovia

I support this bill. Our wildlife is critical to maintain our ecosystems. Let’s please get this bill passed.

Last Name: Zanarini Locality: Halifax County

I am writing in support of prohibiting snares and steel jawed traps. This method of capture is cruel and non-target animals are too frequently victims. Additionally, I whole heartedly support the banning of fur bearing killing contests. These contests are not scientifically backed in helping reduce numbers, especially in coyotes where the opposite effect can be seen. They are cruel, needless, and serve only to perpetuate misinformed prejudices.

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

Please support the efforts to protect our wildlife and others that are caught in the horrific and barbaric traps that are used for hunting and killing of these precious beings. Their lives matter to ecosystems and bring balance and harmony to life itself. We need to learn to respect and have compassion for the wildlife that share this Earth with us. We have encroached upon their homes, their lives without any thought as to how it effects them. They struggle to live and survive, to support their families and friends. We have learned so much from them yet we have learned nothing at all, for they are able to coexist and live with others, something I see very little of in our species. The suffering we bring about through these contests, through these traps that are nothing but cruel and are indiscriminate in their targets are a bloodsport that needs to be banned. Nonlethal methods are available to protect wildlife and all those effected. Thank you🐾🐾

Last Name: Kreiman Locality: Bentonville

I am asking that we please stop the use f leg hold and snare traps. They are extremely cruel and the senseless maiming and killing of wildlife, bobcats, coyotes and foxes and others for cash and prizes and then discarding them as if their lives don't matter doesn't say very much for our own species. Pack structures are broken and there is more evidence of conflict with humans and domestic animals because of it. With all our knowledge and ability to use nonlethal and humane solutions , we would find they are more effective. Their lives are important for the balance and harmony of our ecosystems and biodiversity. Using these traps are barbaric as they are a bloodsport from the dark ages. So many animals are left orphaned, are injured and no targeted species are also at risk. We need to learn to respect all wildlife that shares this beautiful Earth with us and coexist with them in harmony. We have an obligation to protect and defend wildlife not dominate and control... I am a resident of Virginia and I only hope that my voice, the voices of others who wish to protect wildlife and the voices of our precious wildlife are heard. Thank you 🐾🐾

Last Name: Busby Locality: Thousand oaks

Please prohibit this killing for the sake of contests or competition. This is not hunting, this is not sport. This is needless killing for the sake of killing. Please support this bill!

Last Name: Holden Organization: Humane Society of the United States Locality: Richmond

Comments Document

Dear Delegates, I beg you to please support HB 725, HB 1176, and HB 1247 for the sake of innocent, voiceless animals who are suffering from these cruel practices. Regarding HB 725 & 1176, we have found that the use of body-gripping traps (like snares and steel-jawed leghold traps) is not an effective strategy to protect people, pets, or livestock from conflicts with coyotes or other carnivores. HSUS recommends that landowners and ranchers consult with experts about using non-lethal property and livestock protection methods including fencing, guard animals, birthing sheds, and noise and light devices that deter carnivores. If those methods are ineffective, though, Virginia livestock owners can lethally remove problem coyotes or other carnivores from their property at any time, and can engage the services of licensed wildlife damage control operators when necessary. But randomly setting cruel and indiscriminate body-gripping traps in the area will not mitigate conflicts or reduce coyote numbers, and will serve only to endanger the Commonwealth’s pets and non-target wildlife who come across them. With that, regarding HB 1247, wildlife killing contests are absolutely not needed in our community. These contests bring dishonor to our state and the practice of hunting by offering cash and prizes for things such as the most kills, the largest kill, the smallest kill, etc. At these 1-3 day events, hundreds to thousands of animals are killed. These contests are a blood sport and do no favors for the ecosystem. Also, children are commonly present at these contests, witnessing the bloodshed. Events where animals are hurt or killed for prizes and money do not belong in the Commonwealth, or anywhere. The attached fact sheets provide more information on these bills related to trapping and wildlife killing contests. Thank you.

Last Name: Russell, Jack Locality: Fairfax County

I am writing to you in support of HB 1247. I grew up in SW Virginia where there is a strong hunting and trapping culture and as such, it was quite rare to see a wild red fox when I was young. The beautiful animals were (and still are) hunted mercilessly there for their fur. Fortunately, my career travels took me many places and one is a magical place I call Fox World (in Fairfax County). There, I befriended a wild red fox for a decade and when I fell gravely ill with arrhythmia in the forest, the fox was there. Weeks later after four heart operations, the fox was still waiting for me and when I set a cardiac rehab goal of walking 500 miles in a year, he walked every step with me. I wrote a 342-page book, “Fox World” about my walks with this wonderful animal. Foxes are beautiful, wise, sentient beings. I am blessed to know / have known a fox (and his family). What I learned from these animals filled my soul. A lady approached me at a book signing recently and said, “Foxes are little dogs that live in the forest.” That comment touched me to the core, and I admit, I now worry about my fox friend a bit more on icy winter nights after hearing that. My point is this: mass killing of beautiful animals for sport and profit reflects very poorly on our society. With HB 1247, Virginians can stop the senseless killing of foxes in contests for cash prizes. I support it. Please pass this bill. Thank you and kind regards, Jack Russell Author “Fox World, 500 Miles of Walks and Talks with an Old Fox “ foxworldnow@gmail.com jackrussell1220@aol.com www.foxworldnow.com

Last Name: Groelle Locality: Richmond

Hello, I’m writing today to ask you to pass HB1247 and ban wildlife killing contests in Virginia. These types of contests belong in the past, and we need to move forward into a future with more ethical and responsible management practices. There is no scientific evidence that shows that wildlife killing contests reduce populations of coyotes or other animals, not do they increase populations of deer or livestock. In fact, research shows that coyotes manage their own populations based on how much resources are available, as mothers will only have as many pups as the amount of food available can support. And coyotes and other carnivores have a vital role to play in the ecosystem, helping to manage populations of rabbits, rats, and other rodents. Killing contests are just cruel bloodsport that encourage violent disregard of wildlife. Responsible hunters who value the land and the wildlife on it get lumped in with people who participate in killing contests, and it ruins public opinion of hunters. Please pass this bill and ban wildlife killing contests, so that the state of Virginia can fulfill its responsibility to hold wildlife as a public trust for all citizens. Thank you, Chelsea

Last Name: DAngelo Locality: Springfield

Please support House Bill 1247 prohibiting all contests and competitions that offer cash prizes for the killing of coyotes and other mammals in the state. Thank you - Janet

Last Name: Phillips Richmond Organization: Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association Locality: Roanoke

Comments Document

I am writing on behalf of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association (HSVMA) in support of legislation to prohibit coyote and furbearer killing contests in Virginia. This is an issue of such great importance to animal care professionals, wildlife rehabilitators, and concerned citizens across the Commonwealth. HSVMA is a nationwide association of approximately 9,000 veterinary professionals—including approximately 225 Virginia members—with a focus on the health and welfare of all animals, including free-roaming wildlife. Veterinarians stand among the staunchest defenders of animal health and well- being. We work daily to minimize the pain and suffering that animals experience. One way we do that is by supporting policies that minimize the cruelty intentionally inflicted upon animals by humans. And it is hard to imagine a more callous disregard for animal suffering than that displayed in wildlife killing contests, in which participants vie for cash and prizes for killing the most, the heaviest, or sometimes even the smallest animals within a specified time period. I was horrified to see footage of undercover investigations by the Humane Society of the United States of killing contests in Virginia in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The footage shows participants bringing in hundreds of dead coyotes and piling them up for counting or weighing, while children play among the bodies. Some of the animals have gruesome injuries and are ripped apart by bullets. Indiscriminately killing large numbers of coyotes for prizes is fundamentally inhumane. The random and indiscriminate killing of coyotes in springtime contests can cause the orphaning of dependent pups, who are left to succumb to exposure, predation, or a slow and excruciating death by starvation. As veterinary medical professionals, we can attest that the agony endured by coyotes from this type of death is no different than that experienced by our own dogs. Additionally, in online forums, social media posts, and videos, participants have been known to gloat about “gut shot” animals, particularly when referring to coyotes. “Gut shots” are evidence of poor shot placement likely resulting from the incentives in wildlife killing contests to kill as many animals as possible in a specific time period. Before succumbing to these gruesome injuries, “gut shot” animals must endure unimaginable suffering, all for nothing more than the contest participant’s chance at a cash prize. Wildlife killing contests are cruel, wasteful, unsporting, and do not reflect the values of most Virginians. Nor do they comport with the Commonwealth’s ethical hunting principles of sportsmanship, fair chase, and respect for wildlife. The HSVMA therefore asks you to prohibit coyote and furbearer killing contests in Virginia. Thank you for your time and consideration of this vital humane issue.

Last Name: Sturman Locality: Franklin County

HB1247- Delegates, I am a Virginia resident concerned about wildlife killing contests. Please end Wildlife killing contests. There is no scientific evidence killing Coyotes or other wildlife reduces populations or increases populations of game animals like deer or protects livestock. Preventing conflicts by utilizing humane,non-lethal solutions is more effective. Wildlife targeted by contests play an important ecological role in healthy ecosystems. Contests are counter productive to sound management. Eight states have prohibited wildlife killing contests. Americans are demanding an end to this bloodshot immediately! Killing contests are a bloodshot of senseless violence, waste and disrespectful towards wildlife! Killing contests damage the reputation of responsible hunters by violating fundamental hunting ethics. The Bill is not a ban on hunting and does not impact other laws. Virginia's wildlife is managed in trust for all Virginia's to enjoy. HB725- Please outlaw steel-jaw trapping in Virginia immediately. HB725 would protect wildlife, humans,working dogs and companion animals from steel-jaw traps. Science does not support trapping as a legitimate means of wildlife management. In the case of coyote "control",multiple state agencies have echoed the sentiment that it simply does not work to effectively reduce conflicts or populations. More than 80 and several states have already banned leghold traps. Steel-jaw traps are dangerous and inhumane. Banning steel-jaw leghold traps will greatly reduce needless animal pain and suffering. I implore Delegates to enact these Bills and take the right, compassionate actions to protect Virginia's precious wildlife. Thank you for listening.

Last Name: Salan Organization: concerned voter Locality: Alexandria

Dear Delegates, as a concerned Virginian and voter, I ask you to support this important legislation (HB1247) that will make Virginia a leader in humane and responsible hunting practices. Killing contests are blood sports with no real sportsmanship involved. Once more, there is no scientific evidence that indiscriminately killing coyotes and other wildlife reduces their populations, increases populations of game animals like deer, or protects livestock. Randomly killing coyotes disrupts their pack structure, which can increase their populations and increase conflicts between coyotes, humans, and domestic animals. Preventing conflicts by utilizing humane, non-lethal solutions is more effective and the best way forward. Contests targeting wildlife threaten our healthy ecosystems. For example, coyotes reduce rabbit and rodent populations, scavenge animal carcasses and increase biodiversity. Eight states have already prohibited wildlife killing contests and Virginia should be next. As awareness of these barbaric events spreads, Americans are increasingly demanding an end to this bloodsport. Killing contests damage the reputation of responsible hunters by violating fundamental hunting ethics. Countless animals are injured or orphaned during killing contests. The events also put non-target species at risk. This bill is not a ban on hunting and does not impact other laws. Individuals will still be allowed to hunt coyotes and other wildlife according to state laws. Virginia’s wildlife must be managed in trust for all Virginians. Allowing individuals to wantonly kill wildlife as part of a cruel bloodsport is a grave violation of the state’s obligations to hold wildlife as a public trust for all citizens.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Staab Locality: Virginia Beach

HB 1247- Wildlife killing contests have no place in any state. These "contests" serve no wildlife management purpose, and in the current state of our declining wildlife, should never be condoned. These cruel events must be banned. Thank you.

Last Name: Wright Locality: Franklin

I honestly can't even believe I have to write in support of ending these horrific contests and competitions. These are nothing more than violent, unnecessary, unscientific means to kill animals for fun. The science is clear-our ecosystems need coyotes and other predators. Indiscriminately killing animals disrupts pack behavior which in return leads coyotes to often produce more offspring in the next litter. Killing contests give hunters who actually care about conservation and have respect for the life taken such a bad name. The animals and ecosystems of Virginia deserve so much more and I truly hope you all will do the right thing for both!

Last Name: Velez Locality: Orlando

Wildlife killing contests arw barbaric and unnecessary. Wildlife is not ours to own or kill, they need our protwction and understanding. Killing animals for sports or a cash price is inhumane and goes against science. In order to protect this planet and all the living beings, we must learn how to live in harmony. With the human overpopulation, human encroachment and destruction of all natural habitats, wildlife is suffering tremendously. Their diet is being altered by the human behavior. Their homes destroyed. Our entitlement and selfishness, humans thinking we own the planet, is destroying the only planet we have. Speciesm is killing this planet. We must act now, we must educate the society, we must stop these barbaric acts. Trapping, killing contest, hunting should be banned. We must protect all animals.

Last Name: Taylor Organization: Humane Society Locality: Virginia Beach

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Bundy Locality: Herndon

Please ban all wildlife killing contests and competitions. We need to protect our wildlife and not exploit them.

Last Name: Santiago-Ávila Organization: Project Coyote Locality: Madison

Comments Document

On behalf of Project Coyote’s almost 1,000 Virginia members and supporters, our Science Advisory Board and the undersigned scientists, we express our support for the proposed regulation to prohibit coyote and furbearer killing contests.

Last Name: Manning Locality: Virginia Beach

I would like it if you would vote on these laws for the animals. Be their voice.

Last Name: Bernazani Locality: Loudoun county

I don’t need to write another long-winded essay on why I support HB 1247. Isn’t it enough that everyone in their right minds should know that wasteful, cruel wildlife killing contests are just plain wrong? More and more states (like Maryland) are finally admitting this and passing similar bans. It’s time humans grew up, became mature adults, and stopped the obscene slaughter of animals, whether for fun, fund-raising, or any other reason. Surely there are better ways we can do such things, without harming other, less fortunate creatures. Let’s have Virginia become good stewards of what wildlife we have left. Pass HB 1247 now. Thank you.

Last Name: Dueser Organization: Virginia Chapter of The Wildlife Society Locality: Charlottesville

Honorable Chairman Edmunds and Members: I write on behalf of the members of the Virginia Chapter of The Wildlife Society, the principal organization representing wildlife professionals across the Commonwealth, to express support for HB 1247 § 29.1-509.1. Killing contests prohibited. We believe the proposed legislation appropriately strengthens and supplements existing hunting regulations and reduces the potential for public backlash against hunting in general. It will further enable the Virginia Department of Wildlife to exercise its commitment to science-based wildlife management and conservation. The Wildlife Society (TWS) is an international association of over 10,000 wildlife professionals and students dedicated to excellence in wildlife stewardship through science and education. It published an issue statement in 2019 on “Wildlife Killing Contests” (statement). Concerns enumerated in the issue statement include the adverse effects of killing contests on the wildlife resource itself, the utility of targeted killing as an effective wildlife management tool, the public appreciation of wildlife resources, and the public perception of ethical hunting in general. The language and rationale of HB 1247 are entirely consistent with the TWS position. We respectfully encourage your support of this legislation. Thank you for your consideration. Raymond D. Dueser, Virginia Chapter President, The Wildlife Society

Last Name: Reed Locality: Stephens City

Please join other states in passing HB 1247 to prohibit hunting contests in Virginia. Only an adolescence mentality would show this much cruelty to animals. The high-tech means are used simply draw animals to boys with guns sitting comfortably on lawn chairs waiting with high-powered machines. There is no sport, no skill, no reason, except cruelty to do this. Studies show that our wildlife is diminishing due to many, many reasons, and we need to protect those that are left. Please do the right thing and prohibit this grueling killing. Studies also show that many serial killers abused animals in their youth. We are better than this, more evolved than this, and you can help right now.

Last Name: Smith Organization: The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust Locality: Gaithersburg

Comments Document

On behalf of our Virginia members and supporters, the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust requests your support for HB 1247 to prohibit coyote and furbearer killing contests in Virginia. he Trust has 117 sanctuaries across the U.S. and Canada, including two in Virginia, that span over 21,085 acres. We work to permanently preserve and connect habitat, protecting the homes of all species of wildlife. And each of those species, including carnivores such as foxes and coyotes, play their own, uniquely important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. In particular, coyotes provide trophic cascade benefits such as indirectly protecting ground‐nesting birds from smaller carnivores and increasing the biological diversity of plant and wildlife communities. By keeping rodent populations in check, foxes—a target of some killing contests in Virginia—also help to protect crops and control tick-borne diseases such as Lyme. In addition to our work to protect wildlife habitat, we strive to create a world in which wild animals are respected for their intrinsic value and humane solutions are sought to human-wildlife conflicts. Scientific studies have amply demonstrated that the random killing of coyotes, such as in these killing contests, is not an effective method of mitigating potential conflicts with livestock, pets, and humans. In fact, it can increase problems. By disrupting the stable and limiting breeding structure of coyote packs, more reproduction will occur—resulting in more coyotes than there were to begin with. USDA studies have also found that the random killing of non-predating coyotes, who were living in proximity to livestock herds and not causing problems, can trigger conflicts where there were none previously. Nonlethal livestock protection methods, including the use of fencing, fladry, guard animals, and birthing sheds, have proven very effective in preventing conflicts with wild carnivore species. With all of this in mind, the Virginia members and supporters of the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust ask that you pass HB 1247 to prohibit coyote and furbearer killing contests. Thank you.

Last Name: Boyles Griffin Organization: The Humane Society of the United States Locality: Gaithersburg

Comments Document

My name is Stephanie Boyles Griffin and I serve as the senior scientist in the Wildlife Protection department at the Humane Society of the United States. I also serve as a Commissioner on the Maryland Wildlife Advisory Commission. Although I currently live in Maryland, I grew up in Virginia and received my M.S. from Christopher Newport University, where I completed my masters project working with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to resolve conflicts with wildlife along roadways in the Commonwealth. I support HB 1247 to prohibit coyote and furbearer wildlife killing contests because these events are an affront to science-based wildlife management principles; they do not prevent conflicts with livestock, do not increase game species like deer, and do not reduce coyote populations. Wildlife killing contests do not prevent conflicts with livestock. In fact, disrupting the family structure of coyotes may increase conflicts. For example, exploited coyote populations tend to have younger, less experienced coyotes who have not been taught appropriate hunting behaviors. These coyotes are more likely to prey on easy targets like livestock or pets. Additionally, exploited coyote packs are more likely to have increased numbers of yearlings reproducing and higher pup survival—and feeding pups is a significant motivation for coyotes to switch from killing their preferred, small, and medium-sized prey like rodents, to seeking out livestock. Killing contests do not target specific, problem-causing coyotes or foxes. Instead, they kill these species in woodlands and grasslands where conflicts with humans, livestock, and pets are minimal. They do not target the carnivore species who have become habituated by human-provided attractants such as unsecured garbage, pet food, or livestock carcasses. Furthermore, common arguments regarding the impact of predator-livestock conflict are exaggerated. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) data, livestock losses to wild carnivores are minuscule. The predominant sources of mortality to livestock, by far, are non-predator causes including disease, illness, birthing problems, and weather. The North Carolina Commission has noted that, based on USDA data, dogs are an equal or greater risk to sheep, goats, and cattle as compared to coyotes. Prevention—not lethal control—is the best method for minimizing conflicts with coyotes. Eliminating access to easy food sources, such as bird seed and garbage, supervising dogs while outside, and keeping cats indoors reduces conflicts with pets and humans. Practicing good animal husbandry and using strategic nonlethal predator control methods to protect livestock (such as electric fences, guard animals, and removing dead livestock) are more effective than lethal control in addressing coyote-human conflicts. However, this legislation would not affect the ability of landowners and livestock ranchers to lethally remove predating animals from their property or obtain a licensed trapper to control coyotes or contract with the USDA for a licensed wildlife damage control operator. This bill would ONLY prohibit cruel, unsporting, and pointless contests to kill the most, the heaviest, or even the smallest animals for nothing more than a cash prize. Such contests serve no conceivable wildlife management objective, and are not based on any sound, scientific principles. Virginia must do better by its wildlife.

Last Name: Klopfer Organization: the Virginia Chapter of The Wildlife Society Locality: Newport

On behalf of the Virginia Chapter of The Wildlife Society, the principal organization representing wildlife professionals across the Commonwealth, our Executive Board would like to express support for HB 1247, a bill to prohibit predator killing contests. We believe the proposed legislation appropriately addresses the negative consequences of such contests and would enable the Virginia Department of Wildlife Conservation to continue its commitment to sound wildlife management. A core question is whether these contests are effective for controlling predator populations. This question is critical because targeted predator removal has been, and continues to be, a management tool used by wildlife managers to achieve specific conservation and biodiversity goals. Inappropriate or ineffective use of predator removal jeopardizes both the overall utility of this management tool and its acceptability by the public. This management tool must be protected against misuse. The body of research surrounding density-dependent population response to predator removal is extensive. Conner and Morris (2015) conducted a meta-analysis of targeted predator-removal studies to determine the long-term impacts of these activities on predator populations. They found that, for medium-sized predators such as bobcat and coyote, such control is unlikely to result in negative long-term population effects. Even where predator removal efforts resulted in localized elevated mortality, predator numbers remained stable due to increased immigration from adjacent territories (Bodey et al. 2011). Both high rates of immigration and increased rates of birth and survival are likely to counter any population effects of casual predator reduction. In many instances, predator densities either remained the same or actually increased. These research findings call into question the assertion that predator killing contests contribute to significant predator population reductions. Therefore, additional claims that these contests result in collateral benefits such as reduced livestock predation, pet protection or game protection are not supported. These contests are not part of a larger, specific wildlife management objective, nor does the distributed nature of their impact contribute to any effective localized predator control effort. Simply put, there is no evidence to support legitimate wildlife management benefits to predator killing contests. The Wildlife Society has addressed the issue of wildlife killing contests with an issue statement (Issue Statement is attached and may be found online at https://wildlife.org/tws-issue-statement-wildlife-killing-contests/). The policy: • Discourages contests that adversely affect the wildlife resource or the public appreciation of wildlife resources. • Opposes all contests that intentionally wound animals in a manner that causes excess pain and suffering, kill parents resulting in orphaned, dependent young, or devalue wildlife by showing disrespectful photos of piles of dead animals. • Discourages contests that portray hunting in an unethical fashion. • Recognizes that there is little evidence to support the use of killing contests for controlling predator populations. • Recognizes that while species killed in contests can be legally killed in most states, making a contest of it may undermine the public’s view of ethical hunting. We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the bill and support HB 1247.

Last Name: Gonzalez Locality: Lincoln Heights

1176: I support this 1176 bill to end snaring. Poachers scatter snares throughout large swaths of land. They indiscriminately snare wildlife and pets. They are cruel and have an animal in pain for 3 days until they die a cruel death or are used by hunters to bait the suffering creature. This is not hunting, it is lazy deathmines akin of mousetraps. Snares are very difficult to remove once activated. They do not have a place in nature. 725: I support the Ban of steel jawed leg traps. Just like snares, this is cruel and inhumane. Animals are tortured for days. The hunters and poachers that use these have no empathy, they are ok with watching an animal agonize for days, in order to attract more wolves. They shatter legs and can result in either a three legged animal or a dead carcass. Please ban these. 1176: I support this Bill to ban wildlife killings contents or games where wildlife is hunted to be killed in sick and twisted ways like coyote wacking where psychopaths use cars, vehicles, snowmobiles to chase and mow down a coyote or wolf. People that do this are sick in the head and sociopaths. Do not support violence against wildlife. Please educate the benefits of wildlife.

Last Name: Allen Locality: Fairfax

My name is Joseph Allen, and I am a Virginia DWR Restore the Wild license holder and a Virginia resident. Thank you very much for allowing me the opportunity to comment. I urge the Committee to support and pass HB 1247 that would prohibit competitions to kill coyotes or fur-bearing animals. I support the proposed legislation for several reasons. First, as reflected in materials prepared by the staff of the Virginia DWR in their presentations to the DWR Board at the 2021 Board meetings that discussed this issue, there is no evidence that indiscriminate killing contests of coyotes or other local small carnivores, such as foxes or bobcats, effectively promotes any wildlife management or conservation purpose. Second, having healthy populations of coyotes, foxes, and bobcats provide many benefits to Virginians. These animals are an important part of an ecosystem, help keep rodent populations in check, and some evidence has shown that coyotes may even help boost songbird populations. In addition, many Virginians, including myself, experience great joy in seeing these beautiful animals in the wild expressing their natural behaviors. Third, as acknowledged by the Virginia DWR and other state wildlife authorities, these contests have the potential to increase anti-hunting sentiment among the public. Hunting can be a good tool and provides revenue to the Virginia DWR and other state wildlife authorities, but these killing contests are excessive. At its best, hunting allows people to participate in nature and develop respect and admiration for wildlife, but based on the photos that have surfaced showing the aftermath of these events, these killing contests seem to be about wasting wildlife rather than participating with it. I know people have varied opinions on coyotes, foxes, and bobcats, and I respect that, but all of these animals are native wildlife that provide benefits. Coyotes are native, original American wildlife that first evolved on this continent and remain unique to North America. They are as American as bald eagles. Although it’s appropriate for problem animals to be dealt with humanely, nuisance issues can be resolved by targeting the individual animals that are causing the issue rather than by eliminating as many animals as possible in a given area, even the animals that were minding their own business and not causing problems. The vast majority of coyotes do not deserve or warrant this treatment, and these contests risk being seen as a stain on what in many other cases is the beneficial tradition of hunting. It's important to remember that HB 1247 does not prohibit hunting of coyotes, foxes, bobcats, or furbearers generally. This bill has a narrow scope and does not prevent domestic animal owners from protecting their livestock against an animal that is causing depredations. It merely prohibits contests or derbies in which participants are offered cash, prizes, or other inducements of monetary value to capture or kill coyotes or fur-bearing animals. Please pass HB 1247. Thank you for your service and for allowing me to opportunity to provide a comment.

Last Name: Nedelcovic Locality: RESTON

Why am I in support of prohibiting killing contests from our Commonwealth? Because these contests are a bloodbath with no discerning purpose other than “entertainment”. Many competitors use high-tech technology to lure animals in for an easy kill, and then dump their bodies once the animals have been weighed and the prize determined. This is not “entertainment” nor is it hunting, it is cruelty. Often this “ritual” is done in front of children. Is this what we want to teach our children? The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has determined that killing contests have no benefit to the public or other wildlife species. Furthermore, killing carnivores like coyotes can increase their numbers possibly causing an increase in conflicts with livestock! As to the public’s opinion on killing contests? Seventy-eight percent of Virginia respondents are in favor of banning them. Please pass HB 1247 and ban killing contests in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Last Name: M Annunziata Locality: Valley Stream

Traps and Snares must be illegal and abolished - no animal deserves this kind of torture. Just very cruel and inhumane. They are dangerous not only to the innocent animals but can cause harm and death of animals that were not intended to trap, dogs and cats and others. Not to mention humans. Killing Contests are just as evil, and states that allow them are doing it solely for greed. The majority of Americans are against all of this and are tired about not being heard and the only voices that matter are the ones from trappers and hunters! Furthermore it should not be that politicians and wildlife agencies call the shots without consulting real biologists and scientists because they know by killing more coyotes for instance only increases their populations by having bigger litters. Stop the slaughters!

Last Name: Lofgren Locality: Vinton

As a Virginian who cares deeply about animals and our natural ecosystem, I urge you to support HB 1247, which will ban wildlife killing contests in our state. The proposed bill would prohibit the wasteful killing of wildlife for money and prizes in Virginia. It would not reduce opportunities to hunt coyotes or other wildlife species, nor would it prevent anyone from using lethal control to protect livestock or property. It would not affect fishing tournaments, big buck competitions, or field dog trials. Wildlife killing contests serve no science-based wildlife management purpose and flout the principles of fair-chase hunting. The best available science has also concluded that random killing will not control or reduce coyote numbers, reduce coyote conflicts with livestock or increase populations of game animals like deer or turkey. This bill’s passage is long overdue. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same. Thank you very much for your time and consideration, Christine Lofgren

Last Name: Smith Organization: - Locality: Cambridge

There is no scientific evidence showing that indiscriminately killing coyotes and other wildlife reduces their populations, increases populations of game animals like deer or protects livestock. Randomly killing coyotes disrupts their pack structure, which, in turn, can increase their populations and increase conflicts between coyotes, humans and domestic animals. Preventing conflicts by utilizing humane, non-lethal solutions is more effective. Wildlife targeted by contests play an important ecological role in healthy ecosystems. For example, coyotes reduce rabbit and rodent populations, scavenge animal carcasses and increase biodiversity. These contests are counterproductive to sound management. Eight states have prohibited wildlife killing contests. As awareness of these barbaric events spreads, Americans are increasingly demanding an end to this bloodsport. Countless animals are injured or orphaned during killing contests. The events also put non-target species at risk. Killing coyotes for thrills and prizes, with no respect for their intrinsic or ecological value, is senseless violence. This bill is not a ban on hunting and does not impact other laws. Individuals will still be allowed to hunt coyotes and other wildlife according to state laws. Virginia’s wildlife is managed in trust for all Virginians. Allowing individuals to wantonly kill wildlife as part of a cruel bloodsport is a grave violation of the state’s obligations to hold wildlife as a public trust for all citizens.

Last Name: Fagerholm Locality: Prince William County

I support Delegate Keam. I oppose wildlife killing contests. Why does Virginia allow this?

Last Name: Garland Locality: Vienna

Please SUPPORT Del. Keam's HB1247 to outlaw wildlife killing contests. I'm not anti-hunting, especially deer-hunting to protect our forests, but making killing animals a festive event shows a lack of respect for living things. Besides, regarding coyotes, there's no evidence that killing them reduces their numbers for long. Fewer coyotes in a given area means more food for those that remain, so those coyotes will generally be healthier and respond by having larger litters. Also, absent the wolf, their natural predator, coyotes have become so widespread that removing coyotes from one area just attracts others in to claim the territory instead. Coyotes are here to stay. Non-lethal deterrence works better: electric fencing or corrals; fences with fladry (a stop-gap measure); guard dogs, or even donkeys or llamas; light and noise repellents.

Last Name: Potter Locality: Evington

Please prohibit killing contests serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. Pass #1247 to stop this--is is neither sport or science-driven population control. To achieve high kill numbers, some competitors gain unfair advantages over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. Managing a population can be done with science and precision if or when problems arise---but this current wholesale slaughter of 60 "kill as many an possible" contests is unconscionable . It is long overdue to prohibit snares-please pass HB1175 to stop this barbaric practice that traps and kills thousands of innocent pets and unintended wildlife. Human encroachment means animals are driven into areas and if snares are allowed--this cruel "land mine" for innocent animals causes great suffering. Where is the humanity in either of these ways to hunt??

Last Name: Blaney Locality: Arlington

I have attached the written statement of the testimony in support of HB 1247 that I will present "in person" at the subcommittee hearing.

Last Name: Lowy Locality: Vienna, VA

I agree that coyotes are extending their range and displacing other native animals like foxes. It's ok to professionally manage the coyote population in Virginia using humane methods. It is NOT ok to conduct killing contests with no thought to scientific or humane methods. That's just blood sport. I don't understand people who take pleasure in causing harm and distress to animals. Coyotes aren't the enemy. They're just doing what coyotes do. Just because the population of one type of animal needs to be reduced, that doesn't mean we effectively torture them in the process. Please pass HB1247.

Last Name: Lightfoot Locality: Charlottesville

Animals should be protected and not used for cruel practices. It is absolutely abhorring to think this is ok.

Last Name: Fischer Organization: N/A Locality: Roanoke

SHAME! ALL animals deserve to be treated HUMANELY! People who abuse animals will also abuse helpless people, like kids and elders. They MUST be stopped, punished harshly with JAIL, and NEVER allowed near animals again! Healthy ecosystems NEED predators to keep prey species from overpopulating, overgrazing, causing soil erosion, widespread disease and starvation. Allow predators to live and they will do their job to reduce the garden eating pests (rodents & rabbits) that cause crop and property damage.

Last Name: Staley Locality: Sterling, Loudoun

HB1247 | Keam | Coyotes or fur-bearing animals; prohibition of killing contests and competitions. Please outlaw wildlife killing contests in Virginia. These competitions are barbaric and serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. Please stop this barbarism and put an end to them immediately. Thank you.

Last Name: Rowland Locality: Gretna ba

Please do not support this bill. Do you want coyotes and other predators killing your pets and live stock. This is a good way to keep predators in check.

Last Name: Swope Locality: Fairfax Station

Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The Humane Society of the United States has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same. These contests are inhumane and cruel and should not represent who Virginians are any longer. They are a gruesome holdover from the past and it's time to eliminate these contests for good. Thank you.

Last Name: Hearst Locality: Roanoke

Comments Document

Dear Chair Ware and Members of the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: As a resident of Roanoke, Virginia, I respectfully urge you to vote in support of HB1247, which would ban wildlife killing contests. Please see the attachment for my comments. Sincerely, Sydney Hearst Roanoke, Virginia

Last Name: Burgess Locality: Virginia Beach

Please outlaw wildlife killing contests in Virginia. These competitions are barbaric and serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. Please stop this barbarism and put an end to them immediately. Thank you.

Last Name: Martens Locality: Keswick

I am writing in support of HB 1247. These killing contests are barbaric and incredibly cruel. There is a proven link between animal cruelty and criminal behavior. This is not "normal" hunting. This is bloodthirsty, inhumane disregard for life. Please prohibit these killing contests and make Virginia a friendlier place for both animals and people. Thank you, Catherine Martens Keswick VA

Last Name: Backers Locality: Fairfax

HB 1247 needs to be passed to allow Virginia to move forward in compassion, ethics and science and take us out of the dark ages.

Last Name: Kendrick Locality: Reston

ARE YOU KIDDING ME? We actually have this stuff going on in VA?, one of the leading states in the Nation? It's barbaric and serves no purpose other than blood lust. STOP THIS SENSELESS SLAUGHTER...it serves no purpose...

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

HB1247 SUPPORT. Indiscriminate killing of large numbers of coyotes and other fur-bearing animals in a specific area has not been proven effective in their management, and instead may worsen problems by eliminating a "key-stone" predator (as shown with wolf control in Yosemite Nat Park. Beyond their ineffectiveness, the inhumane nature of such blood contests are sufficient reason to prohibit them.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1176 to prohibit the use of snare/steel traps of any circumference. Such traps cruelty and indiscriminately harm. Though they may be intended for nuisance animal control, they are equally as likely to kill or maim family pets, birds, game animals. Left unattended, as is required for their effectiveness, results in a horrid capture or death. Other, better, methods are available to protect livestock.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Swetlow Organization: Myself Locality: Fairfax County

January 28, 2022 3427 Stoneybrae Drive Falls Church, VA 22044 Dear Chair Ware and Members of the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: As a resident of Virginia, I respectfully urge you to vote to move forward with a ban on wildlife killing contests in our state. I support HB1247 for the following reasons: (1) killing contests give hunters a bad name, (2) killing contests result in massive killing without a legitimate reason, and (3) killing contests are an absurd way to manage wildlife. Frankly, I was shocked to hear that such contests are still permitted in the state. They are a throw-back to the dark ages and involve practices that I believe are abhorrent to most hunters—let alone to the general public. How can we justify such an effort to kill so many animals and then not even make use of the meat or fur? It is a dangerous scenario to have hunters compete with one another to obtain a prize; common sense can be lost in the frenzy to win. An early lesson in hunting was not to get selfish and kill off too many animals within one area while the contests seem to engage in just the opposite behavior. Coyotes are a very resilient species, and they are here to stay, so if the objective is to protect livestock, then the focus should be on the specific problem animal(s) which should be removed close to where the problem activity is occurring. Or other methods might be used to scare them away or better protect livestock, particularly their young. There are lots of options. There is a weird notion that somehow a huge pile of dead predators means the problem has been solved. This is hearsay and is not backed up by facts. I am not against hunting, and I don’t usually get involved, but I found this situation so disturbing and the contests are so pointless that I had to act. I respectfully ask you to vote in support of HB1247. Thank you, in advance, for your consideration. Sincerely, Larry Swetlow

Last Name: Liss Organization: no Locality: Annandale
Last Name: Black Locality: Roanoke

Please end this awful practice. It is nowhere near acceptable and serves no valid purpose.

Last Name: Noble Locality: Arlington

I support HB1247. I completely concur with the other responses in support of this bill. Many reputable studies have been done that show coyote populations have increased, proving that this disgusting, useless, cruel blood-sport is ineffective. Most disturbing is that these heinous and barbaric contests are often attended by children. What message are we sending to them about responsible, balanced stewardship, respect toward the sentient beings we share our world with, and basic human compassion toward all of nature's beautiful creatures. We have an obligation to be better than this.

Last Name: Pryor Locality: Wythe

There are better ways to manage coyotes, if they are a problem. These “contests” are inhumane and not to be tolerated by the good citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Last Name: Jetkiewicz Locality: Fredericksburg

Snares and steel jaw traps are disgusting. Too many innocent animals are being caught and die horrible deaths. Chewing off legs to get loose. People walking through the woods can get caught too. Make them outlawed and get rid of them. Also animals are not disposable and should never be used for experimenting. Would you like your cat or dog stolen and sold to labs and be blinded or other disgusting testing done on ? Yes there are lots of homeless animals but promote more on neutering or spaying. Stop animal testing please !!

Last Name: Youngs Locality: Virginia Beach

HB 1247 - Stop the killing contests, They are cruel and inhumane. We don't need to do this for any reason. It is just absolutely sickening. We are destroying the climate, the environment, and killing off animals! We are ultimately going to kill off the human race.

Last Name: Hay Locality: ALEXANDRIA

Good Afternoon, I am writing in regards to the Coyotes or fur-bearing animals killing contests. This is completely inhumane and quite honestly, I don't know how this is even legal. It's barbaric and just truly heartbreaking. Please, please consider putting an end to this massacre. Thank you.

Last Name: middleton Locality: Washington County

Please stop the barbaric killing of coyotes and other wildlife. Don't make this a game for people to destroy animals.

Last Name: Mullins Locality: Gloucester Courthouse

Please outlaw all killing contests. They're barbaric and unnecessary. They encourage a violent lifestyle and indoctrinate children into that violence. The animals deserve to be protected, not hunted for sport.

Last Name: Whitten Organization: HSUS Locality: Lexington

Sir or Mam, Please use your political influence to end the cruel practices of animal killing contests and competitions in Virginia. As a lifelong Virginia resident, registered voter, and state employee I would greatly appreciate you taking action in this matter.

Last Name: Wagner Locality: Washington

Just stop this Just look at the boasting and cruelness and Tailgating drinking and macho behavior it allows and and overkill will be very hard to monitor It’s too much We do use taxpayers dollars for gaming commissions and rangers etc Please hire and pay decent and trained men to cull overpopulation of animals Please find a heart

Last Name: Lieberman Locality: Lovettsville

Please end the wildlife killing contests in Virginia. As a volunteer for the VA Department of Wildlife Resources (formerly, the Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries), I absolutely support ending all of this type of recreational killing "sport". These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The Humane Society of the United States has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same. Please end this barbaric practice. Thank you, Laura Lieberman Lovettsville, VA

Last Name: pettersen Locality: Stephens City, Va

in re hb 1247 Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives.

Last Name: Robinson Locality: Nelson County

I live in an extremely rural area where people hunt for food. Hunting for food is a way of life that helps keep nature in balance when done respectfully and thoughtfully. These killing "contests" are not respectful or thoughtful. They are brutal, barbaric, and serve no purpose at all. Such a thing cannot be considered a "sport", rather, the existence of such contests in our state is an embarrassment. Please end them.

Last Name: Lindsay Locality: Arlington

These contests are inhumane, barbaric and counterproductive to effective wildlife management. They are a stain on the Virginia communities that sponsor them and on the entire commonwealth in their senselessness and brutality. End them immediately.

Last Name: Rudd Locality: Pittsylvania

These hunting games are barbaric. In a world with so much violence already, this only promotes violence and cruelty. This is exactly what we do NO T need now! How do you expect the world to ever begin to right itself without kindness and mercy. YOU are judged by how YOU treat animals!

Last Name: Clark Locality: Montgomery

I am a resident of rural southwest Virginia and support the proposed statewide prohibition of coyote and furbearer hunting contests. In addition to being unethical, such contests are ineffective at reducing wildlife conflicts with pets and livestock. Coyotes are social carnivores with a family pack structure, and they respond to intense persecution by reproducing more, so intense killing is counterproductive and only perpetuates a cruel cycle. It's not a coincidence that these events are often conducted with a low profile so the average resident is unaware they are occurring. As more and more people have become aware of these contests, the vast majority find them indefensible from an ethical, fair-chase, or ecological perspective. Coyote predation on pets can be avoided or mitigated by taking simple preventative measures, such as securing cats and smaller dogs inside at night or keeping dogs leashed or directly supervised outside. Wild animals are more likely to become habituated to humans if they have been fed directly or indirectly, and not leaving unsecured trash or pet food outside overnight is another responsible measure homeowners can take. Bobcat attacks on humans are virtually non-existent, usually isolated incidents involving rabid animals, and bobcat predation on pets is rare and preventable. A study conducted in Bath County found that bobcats strongly prefer higher elevations and remote areas. These beautiful and elusive animals prefer to leave us and our pets alone given every opportunity. It is irresponsible to sensationalize preventable attacks on pets to defend the continued use of these unethical events. Participants are simply killing as many animals as possible to win a prize, using unsporting advantages. Residents should first employ nonlethal prevention methods to mitigate potential predator conflicts before they can occur, as well as educating people about these animals. As far as wildlife management objectives, these indefensible contests are also ineffective. Conserving quality habitat is the best way to ensure high numbers of deer and turkeys, not vilifying coyotes, bobcats or foxes that simply hunt to survive. These killing contests also violate all rules of fair chase, and allowing them to continue reflects poorly on Virginia’s state wildlife department, as well as the hunting community in general. Other states, including neighboring Maryland, have recently phased them out.

Last Name: Tulo Locality: Alexandria, VA

Disgusting and uncivilized to allow hunting of predators.

Last Name: Akhtar Locality: Leesburg

Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same. Please support HB1247.

Last Name: McGrath Locality: Clifton

The slaughter of coyotes, foxes, raccoons or bear for trophies or just entertainment is inhumane. Luring animals with food is hardly hunting. Using night goggles makes this more along to a merry go round shooting gallery. Please pass this bill to let nature thrive and keep it own balance.

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Boulden Locality: Springfield

Cruelty to animals is inexcusable. They are neither for our testing convenience nor for killing contests. Both HB1061 and HB1247 should be supported to show our basic compassion as humans. I want to live in a world--and a state--where the disgrace of animal mistreatment has been conquered by our better, civilized, instincts. The future will certainly judge us that we could not understand how our ecosystem, our existence, and our humanity toward others (including animals) are critically linked.

Last Name: Shaffer Locality: James City County

Wildlife killing contests are barbaric and should be outlawed in Virginia. Let’s join our neighbors in Maryland and end this behavior. HB 1247.

Last Name: McGrath Locality: Warrenton

We need to urgently protect our wildlife; coyotes bobcats and fox. They are needlessly being lured, baited slaughtered in record numbers. They play a crucial role in our eco health system and need our help!

Last Name: Kellogg Locality: Mechanicsville

HB1247 Killing contests and competitions are not really any form of hunting. This is just target practice and a horrible way to treat animals. These contests should be against the law because they are just wiping out certain animals and it is so unnecessary and cruel to do this.

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

I support HB1247. I echo the other responses in support of this bill. There is documentation that coyote populations have increased, proving that this blood-sport is ineffective. Most disturbing is that these cruel and barbaric contests are often attended by children. What message are we sending to them about responsible, balanced stewardship, respect toward the sentient beings we share our world with, and basic human compassion toward all of nature's beautiful creatures. We have an obligation to be better than this.

Last Name: Diolazo Locality: Falls Church, Fairfax county, VA

This "contest" as the State of VA calls it is the most barbaric, Hilteristic event anyone can take part in. Life is life, whether two legged humans or four legged furry beings. This is backwards and evil! As a "modern society" participants are acting like a bunch of country backwards cavemen, lacking any form of intelligence and heart. Whomever in government which designated this deranged activity as sport, should be placed under serious evaluation !!! I have never heard of anything so disgusting in my life, anywhere where we have ever lived. Is this what my husband spent 35 years as an active duty soldier risking his life and the lives of his soldiers to defend? I think not. All life is precious and should be treated as such. Thank you

Last Name: Hamburger Organization: Animal Welfare Institute Locality: Washington, DC

Comments Document

Dear Chair Ware and Members of the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: The Animal Welfare Institute, on behalf of our members in Virginia, submits these comments in support of HB1247, which would restrict coyote and furbearer hunting contests. We respectfully request that you vote in favor of this legislation. Virginia should join other states in banning wildlife killing contests because these events: (1) are cruel and violate fundamental hunting principles taught in Virginia’s hunter education program as well as the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which damages the reputation of Virginia’s sportsmen and sportswomen; (2) undermine modern, science‐based wildlife management principles and are not an effective wildlife management tool; (3) do not increase populations of game animals; (4) do not prevent conflicts with humans, pets, or livestock—and may increase them; and (5) the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (“DWR”) proposed last year to add a new regulation, 4VAC15-20-260, to restrict coyote and furbearer hunting contests, and these contests have been banned in an increasing number of states due to growing public concern. Such contests are antithetical to the respectful, ethical, and pro-conservation message necessary to ensure the long-term protection of Virginia’s wildlife heritage. We therefore respectfully request that you vote in favor of this legislation. For a complete discussion of our concerns regarding these events, please see the attached document. If you have any questions or if there is any additional information we can provide, please do not hesitate to contact me. Regards, Johanna Hamburger Director and Senior Staff Attorney Terrestrial Wildlife Program Animal Welfare Institute

Last Name: DuBois Locality: Henrico

PLEASE protect our wildlife! Vote to stop the useless killing contests and preserve these precious animals!

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Brendle Locality: Yorktown

On HB 1247 Contests for killing is a horrible thing for these wild animals who have a right to life! Virginia should not be supporting any such practice as this. We cannot continue to allow this competition of multiple killings! This needs to and now!

Last Name: Chipkin Locality: Stuart

I support HB1247. I echo the other responses in support of this bill. There is documentation that coyote populations have increased, proving that this blood-sport is ineffective. Most disturbing is that these cruel and barbaric contests are often attended by children. What message are we sending to them about responsible, balanced stewardship, respect toward the sentient beings we share our world with, and basic human compassion toward all of nature's beautiful creatures. We have an obligation to be better than this.

Last Name: Calhoun Locality: Marathon

Please consider supporting these bills, most of which are inhumane. Soon most everything will be hunted to extinction.

Last Name: Griffith Organization: Animal Control Officers Locality: Franklin

I do not agree with animals being killed for trophy or competition. I understand the over population but competitions is just cruel and unfair to the animals.

Last Name: Jones Locality: Fairfax

I support HB 1247 to ban and prohibit wildlife killing contests and competition. A civilized society has no reason for cruelty. Strongly urge legislators to pass HB 1247 and end this savage activity.

Last Name: Clarke Locality: Hampton

I support HB 1247. We definitely need to and wildlife killing contests in Virginia. Eight states have already banned it. It’s a horrific act and doesn’t help any wildlife conservation situation and it also only helps wildlife numbers to grow such as coyote.

Last Name: Fox Locality: CHESAPEAKE

Killing contests serve no purpose in managing wildlife. They are needlessly cruel and lead to callousness, which we certainly don't need more of in society.

Last Name: Kim Locality: Charlottesville

Please exercise your authority to protect both domesticated and wild animals in The Commonwealth of Virginia. It is our collective responsibility to pursue policies that are ethical and compassionate.

Last Name: Dupuis Locality: Alexandria

With so much wildlife under increasing threat due to a variety of human activity, I strongly oppose wildlife “killing contests.” These contests promote bad behavior like cruelty towards animals, excessive violence, and wanton disregard for suffering. I support this proposed legislation to ban killing contests.

Last Name: Spisak Locality: Fairfax County - Mclean

Please support HB1247 and ban barbaric killing contests. Allowing individuals to slaughter innocent animals for sport is inhumane. Let's make Virginia a leader in animal protections instead of lagging behind other states. From FreshVista.com/Bill Graham, Marine Biologist (abbreviated): Coyotes are an important connection in Nature because they play a critical role in keeping natural areas healthy. Coyotes are a keystone species, meaning that their presence or absence has a significant impact on the surrounding biological community. Keystone species like the coyote can have a regulatory effect on smaller predator populations, which allows prey of the smaller predator species to survive. Since small predators, especially fox, cats, opossum, and raccoon, consume eggs and small or young ground nestling birds, an increase in the smaller predators can greatly affect bird populations. Coyotes prey on these small predators, keeping the small predator population in check. Coyotes maintain the balance in the food web below them and around them. When coyotes are absent of greatly reduced in a natural area, the relationships between the species below them in the web are altered, putting many small species at risk. The attitude of organizations that manage public lands is that the coyote is a nuisance species. This opinion does not come from any environmentally sound research. Instead, the source of information enables government approved coyote eradication programs in the agriculture industry because coyotes occasionally prey on a rancher's livestock. Nothing in Nature exists in isolation. Everything is interconnected and interdependent and part of Nature's greater scheme of things. Please ban these killing contests once and for all. Thank you.

Last Name: Smart Locality: Boyce

It’s outrageous that these contests are permitted and encouraged anywhere. They should be completely outlawed in Virginia and everywhere. Please vote in favor of this bill and co-sponsor it. Thank you.

Last Name: McCarthy Locality: Keswick

Thank you to Delegate Keam for sponsoring HB1247, of which I am in full support. I don't know why it has taken our Commonwealth so long to pass any kind of legislation that bans killing contests and competitions. These are just barbaric and inhumane and show Virginia as a state without morality in this instance, and lack of good stewardship of the wildlife and natural resources we are blessed to have. Please do the right and humane thing by voting in favor of HB1247 and banning killing contests and competitions in Virginia. Thank you.

Last Name: Heginbotham Locality: Great Falls

Killing contests are horrific. Not only is it grossly unethical, but it also upsets the balance of nature. If there are no predators, others species get out of balance. For example, in Great Falls, we now have way too many deer, and so the forests can't rejuvenate, and all the creatures that depend on healthy woodlands are denied. Humans have had far too much impact on the planet, and there is no excuse for this. Hunting to eat is one thing, hunting for sport quite another.

Last Name: Leah Bush Organization: 004920414 Locality: New Kent

Animals should never be killed as part of a contest. That is barbaric and brutal. If you are not going to eat it you should not be able to kill it. Stop this horrible practice in Virginia. I live in New Kent County in a rural area. It would be nice not to have gunfire all day Sunday. Sunday is the day of rest. No hunting on Sunday.

Last Name: Leah Bush Organization: 004920414 Locality: New Kent

Animals should never be killed as part of a contest. That is barbaric and brutal. If you are not going to eat it you should not be able to kill it. Stop this horrible practice in Virginia.

Last Name: Powell Locality: Irvingtonva

Stop abusing animals, we are supposed to take care of them

Last Name: Chambers Locality: Hanover

I am in support of H.B. 1247. Wildlife killing contests have no place in this state or in this country. I am ashamed that my state, Virginia, that I dearly love, has allowed this. Killing contests are cruel, unethical, and disturbing. Please pass HB 1247! Please.

Last Name: Camacho Chavez Locality: Woodbridge

Things need to change

Last Name: Rowell Locality: ALEXANDRIA

Contests to kill wild animals should be outlawed. Our parks have suffered since primary predators which help control the wild animals they eat has caused over-populations of deer, etc. If the killing of primary predators is outlawed, the natural control of wild animals in our forests and wild lands will not be a problem and the Commonwealth can save monies to be used for positive purposes. One must wonder at what killing contests motivate the killers.

Last Name: Aiello Locality: Jeffersonton

This horrendous practice needs to stop! It's us that are infringing upon and destroying their habitat, and since this is never going to stop, the only solution I can see is to humanely trap and relocate these animals.

Last Name: Sims Locality: Fairfax

It’s hard to believe that these items are still in question. Animal testing and traps/snares are barbaric . With modern technology, there should be no use for animal research which IS animal cruelty. Do you have a family pet? A child, grandchild, sibling? What would happen if they saw a video of what goes on in industrial farming, animal testing labs/facilities and knew you didn’t do anything to stop it. These are feeling, loving living organisms that feel pain and fear. Small caliber guns are likely to make the animal suffer if shot at long range. Breeders should be curtailed and not allowed to sell animals for testing. There should be more fail safes to prevent shops and zoos from neglecting or harming wildlife in their care. In all of the issues, I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Cunniffe Organization: Humane Society Locality: Newport News

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Ferrandino Locality: Locust Grove

Barbaric. Cowardly-controlling behavior on living creatures. No respect for life. Disruption to the natural wildlife ecosystem.

Last Name: Pivaral Locality: Reston

This is the 21st century not the Dark Ages! So it's time to put and end to wildlife killing contests, which are inhumane, barbaric and far from the civilized way to properly manage wildlife. Do what's morally right.

Last Name: Petro Locality: Arlington

I am in support of H.B. 1247. Wildlife killing contests have no place in this state or in this country. I am embarrassed that Virginia has not outlawed this abominable practice long ago.

Last Name: Harris Locality: Leesburg

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Stewart Locality: Henrico

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events that have no place in our civilized society and serve no legitimate purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over animals with the use of night vision, high-powered guns, and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. This is no way to treat our Commonwealth's wildlife. Our wildlife belongs to everyone in this state to appreciate and observe -- and it shouldn't be decimated at the hands of a few just for bragging rights. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests, and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Casper Organization: Common Sense! Locality: Centreville

Hello, I want to express my support for HB 1247 which would prohibit killing contests of coyotes and fur bearing animals. I feel disgust over the joy and celebration from destroying life. Especially when hunters bring their impressionable children with them. There are many better ways to spend an afternoon. Why not take your child for a hike in a national park? Coyotes deserve to live just like any other living creature. These animals belong to all citizens of Virginia, why do the hunters get to decide their fates? Killing for sport is SICK and should not be encouraged, it devalues all life. If hunters need to hunt for food, then that is a different matter. Also, I'd like to know where the rewards for these contests come from, who pays for this? Please outlaw this cruel pass-time. Thank you Representative Keam!

Last Name: Patrick Locality: Fairfax County

Regarding HB1247 | Coyotes or fur-bearing animals; prohibition of killing contests and competitions, I strongly support the prohibition of wildlife killing contests and competitions in Virginia. I understand from the Humane Society of the United States and personal research I've conducted that in Virginia dozens of these events have been held the last 7 years. Such contests do not assist in humane wildlife management and are simply cruel.

Last Name: Murakami Locality: Hanover County

I’m writing to support HB1247 and to end these senseless killing competitions in the Commonwealth. There is no credible evidence that they are an effective wildlife management tool. Indiscriminate killing does not help balance our delicate wildlife ecosystem. It is not ethical, legitimate hunters respect the value of life and the animals themselves.

Last Name: Workman Locality: Chesapeake

I feel strongly about banning killing contests of foxes and coyotes along with banning snare traps which mph are cruel and not necessary. Breeders and dealers should be banned from selling cats and dogs for any kind of scientific experiments due the fact that there is technology available that would work just as well.

Last Name: Fisher Locality: Powhatan

I come from Connecticut and am ashamed that I now reside in Virginia. Practices such as these mass killings are unconscionable and just another way for people to compete in a barbaric sport. I will never understand why individuals feel the need to kill these animals in order to make themselves feel important and better than others. There are many sports people can take pardon do not involve the killing of our wildlife.

Last Name: Peterson Locality: Fairfax

Killing contests and competitions are cruel and waste of life.

Last Name: Wendy Loundermon Locality: Prince William County, VA

Killing contests are a cruel - inflicting misery and death on wildlife for the entertainment of humans. Animals were not put on this earth for entertainment and deserve to live in peace . Please outlaw this cruel and inhumane practice. You have the power to make the world a better place for the animals.

Last Name: French Organization: Retired Locality: Springfield

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Please stop this now, what are we a bunch of barbarians ???

Last Name: Collins Locality: Virginia Beach

No place for this, regardless of attitudes toward legitimate hunting. Living things deserve respect.

Last Name: Day Locality: Richmond

Comments are for HB 1247, Keam, Prohibition of killing contests. Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. There are ways we can live in harmony with wildlife and not resort to something this barbaric. Please put an end to this horrific practice and help us find ways other than culling to co-exist with nature.

Last Name: Walker Locality: Charlottesville

Dear Delegates, I find a contest involving the killing of any animal to be absolutely inhumane. It is barbaric. I hope that you will support HB1247. Thank you very much, Christie Walker

Last Name: McDermott Locality: James City County

RE: HB1247 = I absolutely abhor & protest the UNCONSCIONABLE & BARBARIC hunting of innocent sentient beings!! They wild animals are being MURDERED BRUTALLY only for prizes going to egotistical, chest-thumping people who call themselves “hunters!” Wildlife killing contests are nothing more than BLOODLUST events where humans compete to kill the most, the largest & the smallest foxes, coyotes, bobcat.s & MORE! More than SIXTY have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. It is ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE!! THERE IS ABSOLUTELY ZERO WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM THAT SUPPORTS THIS. There are EIGHT states that have outlawed killing contests & there are more being passed. To add ~ our Wolves are virtually being WIPED OUT in the West to the brink of EXTINCTION!! VIRGINIA ~ it is high time to enter the 21st century & get rid of the “good old boy” mentality that supports these HORRIFICALLY TORTUROUS & UNNECESSARY contests! Virginia is for Lovers ~ WHAT A LOAD OF CRAP!!!! SHAME!!!!!!!!!

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

508 keep our history alive both the good and bad. We, our children need to be taught the truth about US history 479 removal of large and small damns improves the quality of waterways 323 local and sustainable farms are the key to the future of successful farming. Thomas Jefferson believed this 255 dogs and cats should never be used for inhumane research 206 small renewal energy projects should have been implemented decades ago. We are so behind many countries in preserving our natural resources and increasing and implementing renewable energy sources 140 African American gravesites when discovered should be restored and protected as should all of them 1330 Companion animals should be allowed in more place’s especially on public transportation like Amtrak 1301 clean energy= clean air, water, soil, food and this is a human right 1273 I would like to see hunting bears, deer, raccoons, rabbits, coyote, bobcat foxes completely eliminated. They only terrorize wildlife, there is no “sport” in that. 1247 STOP killing contests of any wildlife!!! This is barbaric 1228 Water quality needs to be of the highest standard. It’s a God-given right 1224 if storm water is managed properly we could avoid massive pollution to our rivers and streams , Bays and Oceans

Last Name: Babin Locality: Winchester

HB1247 I support outlawing this barbaric and disgusting practice!

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Dickson Locality: Skipwith

So, I can beat a wild animal over the head to death and this is crazy...a felony...cruel, an arrestable offense? Then why is it okay for a select few cruel people to torture, maim, and allow their personal property dogs, (just like they are doing it themselves) to dissect and rip apart alive innocent wildlife? Can You imagine the pain and suffering? Will like this for your own pet? Would you do this to a chihuahua? a Shitsu? a bird dog? a feline? just because they have no "owner"? The animals deserve to be left alone and let them live their natural born lives. If overpopulation is an issue...and I believe it isn't...then capture, spay and neuter as we do feral cats. Virginia is for Lovers? Really? where is the love in all this? A few Fox Hound Training pens still maintain a presence in Virginia. They need to be closed out and down as soon as possible. The live trapped foxes are ripped apart alive by 65 pound hounds in the name of training. These dogs have numbers spray painted on their sides for under the table big money gambling meets in these rural areas. Supposedly these meets were made illegal, however the continuation has not changed, and their permits have not been revoked. The cruel, tearing apart alive of these poor creatures are being used for big money for "FUN" and snip their nose about any laws being passed. I've seen multiple times of awards being offered to competitors in field trials. It is against Virginia Law, and it still continues. I believe the ones in the Virginia Department Inland Fisheries participate and cover for the local boys and girls. I've been called the by the local VDGIF employee "Crazy Lady" on top of the hill because I do not agree with what is still being allowed. I've had numerous trucks try to run me of the road. I've been threatened. My ex -husband was threatened by these people. I believe Virginia Government should disband them all and show real people do not tolerate abuse in any form.

Last Name: Bilyeu Locality: Reston

Unnecessary and cruel

Last Name: Monet Locality: Loudoun County

I would like to offer my support to outlaw killing contests of coyotes and other fur bearing animals (HB1247). I would also like to see snare traps for the purpose of hunting or killing prohibited (HB1176). Finally, breeding dogs or cats for foreign animal testing facilities is inhumane, please prohibit (HB1061). We need to protect our animals, not torture them and kill them, thank you.

Last Name: Clark Locality: Williamsburg

Killing living creatures should never be considered sport. All animals deserve the chance to live. Killing is cruel.

Last Name: Trilling Locality: Ashburn

I support this bill HB1247 to prohibit killing contests/competitions. The simple fact that this is going on in this day and age is disgraceful and it needs to permanently end.

Last Name: Sawyer Locality: Fairfax

BAN ALL THESE TOXIC CHEMICALS OUTRIGHT!! THEY WILL ALL END UP POLLUTING WATER, KILLING BEES AND OTHER BENEFICIAL INSECTS, AND CAUSING CANCER, ETC., ETC. THE TRUE COSTS OF THESE TOXINS EXCEED THE BENEFITS!

Last Name: Sawyer Locality: Fairfax

BAN ALL THESE TOXIC CHEMICALS OUTRIGHT!! THEY WILL ALL END UP POLLUTING WATER, KILLING BEES AND OTHER BENEFICIAL INSECTS, AND CAUSING CANCER, ETC., ETC. THE TRUE COSTS OF THESE TOXINS EXCEED THE BENEFITS!

Last Name: Sawyer Locality: Fairfax

STOP ALLLOWING THESE OUTRAGEOUS PRACTICES!!

Last Name: Sawyer Locality: Fairfax

STOP THESE OUTRAGEOUS PRACTICES!!

Last Name: Kuenning Locality: Fairfax

I do not support Any contests or competitions specifically for killing animals or that result in the killing or death of animals. It’s wasteful. It’s barbaric. It shows an incredible lack of respect for life.

Last Name: Martucci Locality: Roanoke

I wholeheartedly support HB1247. It is high time Virginia follows suit of other states that have banned such cruel contests.

Last Name: Triplett Locality: Fairfax

I'm stunned that one even needs to submit an opinion about what should be done about "killing contests and competitions." Stunned because I thought Virginia was a civilized state. The naked barbarity of these things serves no purpose other than to satisfy cowardly blood-lust and feed a government's basest means of raising revenue. They are an embarrassment as much as a complete and disgusting shame. Don't even try to hide behind the fig-leaf of trying to practice "predator control." There are actual civilized ways of controlling predators -- if you don't know them, you're not talking to the right people and organizations. Anyone who engages in these things, or allows these things, or -- worse -- profits from them isn't fully human. At the very least stop pretending that it's anything other than cruelty for fun, and if you continue to let it happen, you're no better than the depraved people who pull the triggers. Be better than that. Put an end to these atrocities.

Last Name: Hansen Locality: Fairfax

Support

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: barnes Locality: fairfax

It is quite embarrassing that in 2022 such practices are allowed in our state much less anywhere on the planet. This is something our legislative bodies should be able to address in about a microsecond. What are you waiting for?

Last Name: Schweig Locality: Fairfax County

I support HB1247, concerning coyotes and other fur-bearing animals, prohibiting killing contests and competitions. Simply put, killing these animals for sport is cruel and barbaric. These “fur-bearing” (so similar to dogs and cats) should be allowed to live their lives and raise their young pups and cubs. It makes no sense to disrupt their homes and family units - shooting, wounding, killing them - all to win some contest. It needs to stop. Whatever happened to compassion, empathy, or just respect for the natural world?

Last Name: JOHNSTON Locality: Fairfax County

It is time for the Commonwealth to ban cruel and disgusting wildlife kill competitions. Science does not back a need for this slaughter so killing just for killing is simply immoral and should not be tolerated in our great state. These competitions are cruel and unusual and barbaric. They need to be stopped. Thank you.

Last Name: Leishear Locality: Falls Church

Any and all contest hunting should be illegal. No hunter should have the right to go onto another person's land to hunt without written permission from the land owner. No cats or dogs should be sold or bred for the purpose of " research." Please take a note of Dr. Anthony Fauci's unimaginable cruel and painful animal research projects. Snare traps should be illegal unless placed where the hunter will step on it.

Last Name: Christiansen Locality: Centreville

I support HB 1247 because killing contests are cruel and wasteful. They serve no legitimate wildlife management function. Virginia needs to prohibit wildlife killing contests that target coyote and other fur-bearing animals such as bobcat and fox.

Last Name: Nehra Locality: Loudoun

This practice simply cannot be allowed in any state, let alone one with such a rich natural history as Virginia. I know I, along with countless other Virginians, refuse to support a government that allows this to occur in my home, let alone supports with my tax dollars. Do better, Virginia.

Last Name: van Es Organization: self Locality: Fairfax

I support HB 1247 . Killing contests are cruel, inhumane, unnecessary, and frankly, make our Commonwealth look barbaric.

Last Name: Rotondi Locality: ARLINGTON

I am urging you in the strongest possible terms to support H.B. 1247. I am fortunate enough to have encountered Virginia’s diverse wildlife while out hiking in the Commonwealth’s forests including the Appalachian Trail. Seeing foxes, bobcats and even coyotes is a wonderful experience. I spent many years as a scout leader introducing young people to the wonders of nature and most importantly teaching them to respect our wilderness areas and value our wildlife. These wildlife killing contests are simply cruel. The Department of Wildlife Resources must have the authority to do what it is tasked to do: lead the Commonwealth’s wildlife conservation effort. Let’s not sit idly by while these killing contests indiscriminately kill hundreds of animals. Let the Department of Wildlife Resources get on with the job of protecting and conserving Virginia’s wildlife resources. Thank you.

Last Name: Ryan Locality: Lottsburg Va.

Useless cruelty only spawns gun violence. ,Plus being inhumane.

Last Name: McCartney Locality: Glen Allen

I support this bill. These contests do not serve any wildlife management purpose, are not for subsistence hunting purposes and are a cruel and pointless thing for Virginia to sanction. There are no benefits, and it reflects poorly on our Commonwealth.

Last Name: Ebersberger Locality: Clarke County

This is to express my support for HB1247, Coyotes or fur-bearing animals; prohibition of killing contests and competitions. Promoting the cold-blooded killing of animals in contests or competitions is as senseless as it is cruel. It is time for Virginia to join states that have already ended such "traditions".

Last Name: Cleaver Locality: Rockville

End Killing contests, they serve no legitimate wild life management purpose, are killing for prizes and are barbaric disregard to wild life.

Last Name: Brian Gallagher Locality: Arlington, VA

I support HB 1247 and urge the committee to pass it. It's past time to end these contests in Virginia.

Last Name: Rivero Locality: Alexandria

HB 1061 Please do NOT breed animals for foreign animal testing. This is a barbaric practice and should be stopped. The tests don't really prove anything anyway, it's all about the money.

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: Porter Locality: Chesterfield

Sirs - I am disgusted to learn about wildlife killing contests in Virginia—over 60 since 2015. The competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose, just for cash and prizes. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. I am exercising my right to demand a stop to this. Eight states including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont have outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same. Thank you.

Last Name: Neubeck Locality: Staunton

I cannot believe this barbaric practice stil exists in this day and age! How unfair and certainly unnecessary! These are lives being taken for sport...all life is sacred! Will we ever understand this?

Last Name: McKee Locality: Arlington

RE: HB1247 Few things are more disgusting and pointless than innocent, defenseless animals being murdered just for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which blood-thirsty participants compete to kill the most, the largest, or even the smallest foxes, coyotes, and bobcats. Wildlife killing contests are a very widespread problem in Virginia — over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve NO legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors exploit an extremely unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns, and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of young coyotes and foxes in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and has witnessed competitors dragging blood-covered coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins; young children playing among the blood-covered animals; and piles of blood-covered animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi” — illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states — including Maryland, Massachusetts, and Vermont — have already outlawed killing contests, and it's high time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Armstrong Locality: Fairfax County

Please find your humanity and stop these "contests". We need to be more thoughtful caretakers of God's earth.

Last Name: hardy Locality: Springfield

We cannot undo most of the damage humans have done so it is urgent to stop harmful behaviors of humans that effect and endanger animals and environments.

Last Name: Hanrahan Locality: Lorton

I am writing in support of this bill to prohibit wildlife killing contests in Virginia. I only recently learned that these extremely cruel, utterly wasteful, and fundamentally unsportsmanlike events occur in the Commonwealth. Virginia is sadly the home to the largest wildlife killing contest east of the Mississippi. Billed as family events, these events offer cash and prizes for killing coyotes, foxes, and other fur-bearing animals in various categories - the most, the largest, the smallest, the mangiest, or whatever creatively useless category the sponsors devise. Following all the mayhem, the dead animals, by the hundreds, are dumped as refuse. These events should not be confused with bona fide, traditional hunting, which is grounded on the principle of fair chase. To the contrary, "hunters" in these contests routinely lure the animals with calls of their fellow foxes or coyotes in distress or the sounds of prey animals. The unsuspecting animals go to the hunter to be slaughtered, not for food, not for wildlife management, but for bloodlust. Indeed, Virginia's own Department of Wildlife Resources itself has soundly rejected any notion that wildlife killing contests provide any benefit to the public or other wildlife species, in stating that it had found "no scientific evidence to support claims that predator hunting contests reduce predator numbers, reduce livestock damage, or or increase populations of game species." When the Department of Wildlife Resources requested public comment on wildlife killing contexts this past summer, 78% of Virginians opposed the contests as a game of killing that disrespected and devalued life and made no use of the animals killed. Last year, our neighbors in Maryland joined the numerous states that have prohibited these contests. We in Virginia should similarly cast a vote for civility and respect for nature over depravity and barbarism. This is a common sense bill that reflects the common sense of Virginians. Please cast your vote to support this legislation. Thank you.

Last Name: Russell Locality: Richmond

Animals should not be killed for pleasure of humans.

Last Name: Tyler Locality: Lynchburg, Virginia

Please have compassion for animals; all animals. CRUELTY done to animals will come back to harm you. Karma. Do unto others as you would like to be treated.

Last Name: Hall Locality: Mathews

Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. This illustrates a total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: kuhn Organization: Mr Locality: roanoke

Please stop the killing contests and save those poor animals.

Last Name: Boyd Locality: Alexandria

Please end hunting contents - these are not people shooting an animal for food, nor any kind of sport, they are gratuitous killing contests for no reason. This not only decimates wildlife, it encourages a level of violence that many psychologists believe carries over into violence against other people.

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

Wildlife contests are cruel and unnecessary. Making a game of killing is not what we should be doing. The natural balance of species will happen when we stop these practices. I urge you to stop allowing them

Last Name: Gray Locality: Falls Church

How can anyone condone this type of killing of animals and then say it is a friendly 'family' activity? PLEASE DO ANYTHING YOU CAN TO HELP GET THIS PASSED TO STOP THIS HORRIFIC PRACTICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last Name: Miller Locality: Hamilton

These killing contests are barbaric. People who kill in this manner show a total disregard for wildlife and life in general. Virginia's wildlife belongs to all Virginians and should never be destroyed for the sick entertainment of a few.

Last Name: Murphy Locality: Great Falls

Please ban wildlife killing contest in Virginia.

Last Name: Phillips Locality: Richmond, VA

Please stop hunting animals, breeding animals for research (or in general - adopt!), and other horrific abuse towards innocent creatures!! It is absolutely despicable!

Last Name: Rough Locality: Charlottesville

We are destroying our planet now. People should not be able to have hunting contests. They are cruel and unnecessary. They have no reason except to feed some insecure human ego because they can kill something. Let's do everything that we can to protect our beautiful planet and all of its creatures. They have as much right as we do to live here without threat.

Last Name: Brenner Locality: Fairfax County

There is no room - or excuse - in a civilized society for contests aimed at seeing how many animals a person can kill and who can kill the most. It is nothing but bloodlust, pure and simple, with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. Please support the prohibition of all such contests in the Commonwealth.

Last Name: Love Locality: Stanardsville, VA

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." M. Gandhi I think this quote sums it up quite eloquently. Wildlife killing in this country, just for the sport of it, is too often cruel, unconscionable, without reason or justification, and inhumane. I question the humanity and the mental health of these individuals who enjoy killing defenseless animals, and I question the officials like law enforcement who know about it and allow it to go on unchecked, or encourage/support it. I question officials who fully understand that the "competitors" gain unfair advantage over animals by using night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. This is NOT hunting. This is seek and find slaughter for the joy of it, and I find it disgusting. Please, stop these barbaric wildlife killing contests in my state of Virginia immediately. It is shameful.

Last Name: Kosiek Organization: none Locality: Chesterfield

Why are we condoning killing for fun? Killing for fun has no place in a civilized society yet we still permit "killing contests"? Let the barbarians shoot targets and leave living beings alone.

Last Name: Boyle Locality: Woolwine

This is BEYOND cruel. It needs to STOP!

Last Name: holbrook Locality: dickenson

I think contest for killing animals is cruel and inhumane and should be stopped. Would you please sponsor a bill to stop this.

Last Name: Hayden Locality: King George

We need these predator animals to keep the prey animals in check.

Last Name: Pryor Locality: Tazewell

Please support HB 1247 and stop this barbaric, cruel, and totally pointless murder!! It should not be happening anywhere and certainly NOT in Virginia!

Last Name: Poyer Locality: Northampton County

The way a country treats its animals is indicative of the moral character of its people. Unlike traditional hunting, both the breeding of animals for foreign experimentation use and the reprehensible practice of “killing contests” as some sort of public entertainment evokes the barbarism of medical societies and teaches young children that it’s desirable to mistreat and kill animals as much as they please. It’s time to put a stop to these gruesome and ugly practices, and set a better and more humane example for impressionable children as well.

Last Name: Kelly Organization: myself Locality: Alexandria

Aside from the fun and excitement of shooting guns and bragging rights for killing Virginia wildlife, what in heaven's name are these animal murder contests for??? Coyotes and foxes have every right to live their lives in peace in our forests and meadows; their food is rats and other pests; they're part of the balance of life. It's a sad world when Virginians get a thrill from stalking small animals with modern technology and then get all excited about killing them. What kind of people are we?

Last Name: DiMartino Locality: Richmond

I am pleading with you to pass HB1247. What kind of human beings are we to allow for the senseless killing of animals that exist on this earth. It is barbaric and so very cruel what the state of Virginia is permitting. Can’t we do better than this?

Last Name: Sumner Locality: Charlottesville

Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events killing both the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. This is promotes unnecessary violence. Please stop this. Thank you for your consideration. R. Sumner

Last Name: Lonero Locality: Prince William County

Please end wildlife killing contests! The people involved in these massacres CANNOT CLAIM THIS IS THE SPORT OF HUNTING. To achieve high kill numbers, the killers gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns, and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. Additionally, the best available, peer-reviewed scientific literature indicates that WILDLIFE KILLING CONTESTS ARE NOT AN EFFECTIVE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT TOOL. Killing contests do not reduce coyote populations. Coyotes are compensatory breeders; killing one can result in several more taking that coyote’s place. KILLING WILD ANIMALS IN CONTESTS WILL NOT PROTECT LIVESTOCK. In fact, studies demonstrate that such indiscriminate killing can lead to more livestock loss. Most coyotes do not prey on livestock and instead prefer to eat natural foods, such as rodents, insects, and fruit. But packs whose members are randomly killed have more pups and this can force adult coyotes to move to larger and easier targets like sheep just to feed their families. Please stop the wholesale, senseless and cruel massacre of wildlife. PLEASE SUPPORT HB1247.

Last Name: Harris Organization: YYYY Locality: Midlothian

Please prohibit "killing contests'" for coyotes or fur-bearing animals in the state of Virginal immediately.

Last Name: Keffer Locality: Roanoke

Please end this. Cruelty shouldn’t be rewarded

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: Michalsky Organization: HSUS Locality: Warrenton

Re: HB 1247 As a resident of Virginia I think killing contests of fur bearing animals should be prohibited in the state of Virginia. Eight states have outlawed these contests and Virginia should follow suit. There is a total disregard for animals lives and children who are in attendance at these killing contests.

Last Name: Auerbach Organization: Nance-More Farms Locality: Mecklenburg County

I strongly urge you to support HB 1247. I urgently feel we Virginians should eliminate the inhumane and senseless killing practice of wildlife killing contests as numerous other states have done. Please act now!

Last Name: Troxell Locality: Virginia Beach

Killing contest ? How backwards and barbaric. Killing any animal is sick but this takes to 'serial killer in the making" sick.

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Hyder Organization: - Select - Locality: Alexandria

When did Virginia become a third-world country with no laws regulating the protection of wildlife? SHAME on any legislator who allows this barbarism to continue!! How does anyone draw any pleasure from wildlife killing and how, on earth, does this become a 'contest' when the animals have no voice! I am vehemently opposed to any wildlife killing and implore our legislature to do the right thing.

Last Name: Hoffman Locality: Warrenton

I support HB1247. The senseless killing of animals has got to stop. Wildlife have the right to roam free.

Last Name: Perley Locality: Bent Mountain

Research or experimentation of any kind on any animal should be prohibited. Wildlife killing contests should be prohibited as well as the use of snares and traps. Sunday hunting should be revoked.

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: Alstrom Locality: Alexandria

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Brall Locality: Roanoke. VA

Any animal who has to suffer at the hands of humans should be stopped!!!

Last Name: Wranek Locality: Lexington

Please end these cruel practices!

Last Name: Mallard Organization: Mallard Locality: Reston

I wish to encourage support for all legislation that enhances the protections of all animals and improves the quality of life of animals. Additionally, I encourage support for all legislation that is intended to improve our society's dedication and action to reduce the man-made conditions leading to climate change.

Last Name: Marshall Locality: Moseley

Dear Sir, Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The Humane Society of the US has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same. Thanks. Sincerely, Dr. Tim Marshall

Last Name: Gay Organization: HSUS Locality: ARLINGTON

Wildlife, like National / State parks, forests and the other features of our open country, enhance our environment and improve the quality of it and subsequently our lives. But to sustain this environment for ourselves and future generations, we must prevent the loss of these precious resources. As it is, simply surviving is a challenge to many wildlife species as civilization encroaches on smaller and smaller areas in which they can exist. For instance, note the deer killed on the George Washington Parkway each year. We live in a high rise condo next to National Airport in a dense environment, yet we have seen a family of 3 foxes within 100 yards of our condo and deer within a quarter of a mile. So these animals are trapped in tiny wildlife corridors and as a result are very susceptible to lethal encounters with people. And in this environment, they must be able to find food and survive. Each day is difficult just to exist. To this situation, we add killing contests to further decimate the wildlife and to what end? From the Middle Ages, we refer to animals as game because to us, these animals provide a form of entertainment -- like an adult version of an Easter egg hunt. These killing contests are destructive not just to animals; but to our own environment and sense of well being. We are in the process of destroying an important element of our society by damaging the wildness we so crave. All it provides is live target practice for those who engage in it and a perverted form of entertainment. That is an expensive price for all of us to pay to entertain such a small group of destructive people. I encourage you to stop this egregious practice of permitting these killing contests. It is better for wildlife, our environment and especially for us. Thank you for considering my input. Very respectfully, Don Gay 1200 Crystal Dr, Suite 812, Arlington, VA 22202-4311

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Grear Locality: Williamsburg

How can a state as prestigious as good ol Virginia allow such barbaric cruelty? Someone with more than 6 brain cells tell me why allowing this is necessary.

Last Name: Dillard Organization: Humane Society of the United States Locality: Haymarket

These so-called "killing contests" are, in my opinion, immoral, unethical and inhuman. The very fact that our citizens pursue these endeavors with glee and enthusiasm makes me want to describe them as "medieval" and conduct far beyond the scope of acceptable in modern society. Please support the prohibition of killing contests.

Last Name: Husband Locality: Arlington

We need to prohibit killing contests in Virginia to ensure a healthy and genetically diverse population of coyotes and foxes survive hundreds of years into the future. An abundance of foxes and coyotes is important in controlling the rat, mouse and rabbit populations.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Cutler Locality: Midlothian

Outside of the obvious fact that the thrill of the kill of sentient beings is unimaginable to those with compassion and kindness, the fact that it is 2022 and people still have this need is literally insane to me personally. Play video games, for heaven's sake, and leave the creatures of this planet we inhabit alone.

Last Name: Bourassa Locality: Chesapeake

Please ban the senseless killing by contest hunt of these animals for the sport of death. It is heartbreaking to see pictures of this slaughter for fun.

Last Name: Howe Organization: Piedmont Virginia Community College Locality: Afton

Is this 2022 or is it the stone age? Killing living creatures for fun is pathetic, disgusting and totally cruel. This earth was made for all of us, human and animals, and just because people have the means to kill doesn't make it right. I am totally embarrassed to live in a state that makes the killing of sentient creatures for FUN a legal activity. This bill should absolutely be passed, but I'm positive that it won't be cause legislators care more about donations from pro-gun groups than actually doing the right thing!

Last Name: Allen Organization: none Locality: Centreville

Please end the barbaric practice of mass executions of wildlife.

Last Name: Sowa Locality: Fairfax

Time for Republicans to do what the DemocRATS were afraid/unable to do and protect the rights of all (domestic and wild) animals by implementing humane laws.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Schratz Locality: Burke

With regard to HB 1247, the inhumane and cruel "sport" of killing animals for contests or otherwise has no place in our society. The animals are helpless to defend themselves - how does this constitute a sport? Be a frontrunner as an advocate for animals and stop this disgusting and cruel practice.

Last Name: Rassier Organization: Retired Locality: Ashburn

1247: The practice of mass slaughter of wildlife for sport is appalling and barberic. There is no science or data to suggest over population of coyotes or fox or any other wildlife which would necessitate the culling of these species in such a horrific and inhumane manner. Leave our wildlife be, for the enjoyment of future generations as well as the balance of eco systems. At the very least hi power scopes, animal calling devices, food baiting, and trail cameras should all be illegal. HB725: This is the very pinnacle of indifference by mankind for pain and suffering of other species. These traps are not checked on a regular schedule and the animal suffer great pain or death.

Last Name: Sokol Locality: Fairfax

Please stop killing contests immediately. Killing animals indiscriminately for the sake of some prize shouldn't be a contest. It should be a crime with severe penalties.

Last Name: Doles Locality: Prince William

This practice is cruel and sadistic. They is no good reason that these killings should continue. Please vote to stop this barbaric practice now. Thank you.

Last Name: yates Locality: suffolk

please outlaw killing contest, hunting on Sundays and the use of steel-jawed traps

Last Name: Foote Locality: Williamsburg

I can think of nothing more cruel, than humans preying on animals that are simply trying to survive. There is NOTHING humane or just about killing contests. Virgins has NO room for this type of practice. Please put an end to these horrible contests.

Last Name: Wilde Locality: Alexandria

Killing animals for competition is an absolutely barbaric activity. There is no place in a civilized, educated society for such cruel and ignorant behavior. It shows an appalling lack of humanity and I am ashamed to live in a state that allows such wanton disregard for life. Please make this illegal immediately. It is a bloody stain on the Character of all Virginians and on all Americans.

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Lebanon

This is cruelty to animals on all circumstances. Need to pass a law to put a stop to these killings for contests and also put a stop to sending these animals for testing. These are God's creatures. They deserve to live not to be killed or sent to these labs for tests. Please put a stop to these 2 matters. Ty

Last Name: Schultz Locality: James City County

Please vote to end the senseless and brutal killing of animals. It's time for Virginia to emerge from the dark ages and join those states that have already outlawed this barbaric practice. Think of the example being set for young children who witness these brutal events. And we wonder why many children have no appreciation for the value of life. How many who participate in similar events have gone on to mass shootings? I fully support HB 1247.

Last Name: Doll Locality: Manassas

Hunting and fishing for the purposes of providing food is fundamental and legal, but killing for pleasure or another grotesque thrill is just inhumane and morally wrong. Free mental health evaluations should be offered by the state for all who would attend, participate or otherwise support this type of behavior. Please pass legislation that stops and makes this type of activity illegal with severe penalties.

Last Name: Holmes Locality: Purcellville

Wildlife killing contests are disgusting and should be illegal with strict enforcement.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Lauten Locality: Lovettsville

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Di Cintio Locality: Charlottesville

Please stop this horrific and barbaric practice immediately!

Last Name: Fisher Locality: Front Royal

These contests are extremely cruel and inhumane. Please stop them. Zee Fisher

Last Name: VOINOT Locality: VAUCOULEURS

Mais comment est-ce possible qu'au 21ème siècle de telles tueries sous prétexte de concours soient encore autorisées !... Une honte pour ceux qui participent à ces concours et à ceux qui les autorisent !... La sauvagerie existe bel et bien, mais dans ce cas ce sont les humains qui le prouvent !...

Last Name: Cannon Locality: Front Royal

These primitive contests are a disgrace to our commonwealth. Maxine Cannon

Last Name: Fisher Locality: Front Royal

Please put an end to these exceedingly cruel contests. Ms. Sharon Fisher

Last Name: Holmes Locality: Scottsville

I do not support the breeding of animals for testing or research. I want it banned. I do not support hunting or fishin and I certainly do not support 'hunting games' where vile people who have guns and nothing better to do go out and be a serial killer for a weekend killing animals for some game and a trophy. GROW UP. I do not support traps or the fur trade and want it to be against the law. I want an end to the killing hunting games previously mentioned. I want breeding or selling animals for animal testing and research no matter what that animal is to be against the law and punishment.

Last Name: Stukel Locality: Henrico

Killing contests have no place in Virginia This is not a sport, it is not for wildlife management. It is purely for the joy of killing. It is animal abuse and should not be allowed. We are better than this.

Last Name: Hobbs Locality: Chesapeake

Killing contests are brutal, inhumane. Why would any compassionate individual delight in killing animals in such a heinous activity? If shooting guns as a competition is thegoal, people should be restricted to a shooting range. I fully support HB 1247.

Last Name: Vasquez Locality: Fairfax

Killing for sport is barbaric and cruel. I support this bill and encourage the house to support it as well.

Last Name: Schwartz Locality: Arlington

Wildlife killing contests are despicable and serve no purpose. Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. This must be outlawed now. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. This is inhumane and I am embarrassed my state still allows this. Please ban this ASAP!

Last Name: Mace Locality: Spotsylvania

I fully support this bill. We have done way too much to interfere with the balance of nature. They deserve a place here as much as humans do. ENOUGH KILLING!!!!

Last Name: Winch Locality: Norfolk

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress.

Last Name: Cannon Locality: Front Royal

Please stop these cruel contests. John R. Cannon, P.h.D. Wildlife Biologist

Last Name: Hall Locality: Fairfax

These contests are a moral perversion. Hunters should respect wildlife, not engage in activity to kill as many creatures as possible in the shortest time, using all sorts of deceptive and high-tech methods that lure wildlife to be slaughtered. The contests have nothing to do with skill, respect for the outdoors or promoting the outdoors. It glorifies killing and such attitudes can influence the participants attitudes toward other creatures, including humans, whose lives they consider unimportant - including women, pets, the poor, minorities and any "other." Please prohibit these contests.

Last Name: Morris Locality: Henrico

Stop this senseless killing!

Last Name: Provenzano Locality: Fairfax County

Please support these bills and bam these barbaric wildlife "management " practices.

Last Name: Germeyer Locality: Prince William

HB1247 Stop those cruel contests when wild animals are killed for prizes and bragging! How can they even exist in the 21st century??

Last Name: Kosikowski Locality: Haymarket, Virginia

Wildlife killing contests are disgusting and basically constitute State (in this case, Virginia) sponsored animal abuse. The fact that they continue to this day is abhorrent and they need to be outlawed.

Last Name: Campbell Locality: Arlington

Please outlaw the wildlife killing contests in Virginia. They are cruel and not in the interest of the common good. Please stop them now. Thank you.

Last Name: Guido Locality: Falls church

Please support hb1247 and end this horrible and inhumane contests! This is cruel and unusual punishment for these creatures. Please let’s set a good example for the next generation that we can live in harmony with nature. The taking of a life in any form is of serious consequence and certainly has no place in any type of contest!

Last Name: Triplett Locality: Frederick County VA

NO ONE SHOULD BE REWARDED FOR MURDER!

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

Last Name: Roberts Locality: Fairfax

Do not permit sport hunting such as this. This is not useful. It is an act of cruelty. It is also an abuse of Dominion.

Last Name: Moritz Locality: Henrico

Please end these animal cruelty practices!

Last Name: Kresha Locality: Herndon

Wildlife killing contests should be illegal.

Last Name: Murray Locality: Waynesboro

Please put an end to this cruelty.

Last Name: Fary Locality: Portsmouth

Killing wild animals for food is understandable. Killing them for sport or bragging rights is pure Evil!!! This needs to stop!!!

Last Name: Burzenski Locality: WOODBRIDGE

Killing contest....? For the mentally inferior, pathetic, individual who's life ambitions are obviously very low.

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Stafford, Fredericksburg

Protection of Land, Water, Air, Soil and all animals is up to us and for future generations a must.

Last Name: Must Locality: Fairfax county

I support this bill. Please stop wildlife killing contest.

Last Name: Rose Organization: Self Locality: Prince William, Woodbridge

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: stewart Locality: vienna

Dear Mark, This is a note from Cindy Stewart to express my support for HB 1247. In my retirement years, I have focused on community engagement through the Vienna Woman's Club and also promoting animal welfare through volunteering with the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. I urge Virginia to join Maryland in being in the vanguard of progressive states enacting laws that protect animals, both wild and domestic, from animal cruelty. These killing contests are not sporting or fair. Thank you very much for considering my note. Sincerely, Cindy Stewart

Last Name: Skuse Locality: Tazewell

Virginia is rife with opportunities for hunting wildlife, must we offer up archaic trophy style hunts of every single creature with a God given fur pelt?

Last Name: Moore Locality: Cheaspeake

These wildlife killing contests are inhumane and disgusting. They made me embarrassed to have been raised in Virginia.

Last Name: Helmlinger Stewart Locality: Crozet

This is well beyond hunting. It incentivizes mass slaughter without any regard for non-human life, encourages winning "by any means necessary" including shocking acts of cruelty in the name of competition. Stop treating killing as entertainment.

Last Name: Tackett Locality: Virginia Beach

We should be protecting our animals, both wild and domestic. We also need to protect our environment. Inhumane treatment of all animals needs to stop.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

Last Name: Singer Locality: Roanoke

I think it's time that Virginia outlawed such barbaric 'contests' that serve no purpose except bragging rights. Glorifying the killing of wildlife for no acceptable reason is outrageous. 'Hunting' wildlife with advanced killing technology is not hunting. It's sadistic.

Last Name: Sullivan Locality: Henrico

I support this bill 100%--killing of wildlife for sport is barbaric and horrific and needs to STOP!!! Please let us join other civilized states and ban this cruel activity NOW!

Last Name: Baker Locality: Albemarle

Please pass HB1247 that would prohibit killing contests. Killing contests are wrong.

Last Name: Williams Locality: Stuarts Draft

Few things are crueler than animals being killed for prizes and bragging rights. Wildlife killing contests are barbaric events in which participants compete to kill the most, the largest or even the smallest foxes, coyotes and bobcats they can for cash and prizes. Wildlife killing contests are a widespread problem in Virginia—over 60 have been held in the Commonwealth since 2015. These competitions serve no legitimate wildlife management purpose. To achieve high kill numbers, competitors gain an unfair advantage over the animal with the use of night vision, high-powered guns and electronic calling devices that mimic the sounds of coyote and fox young in distress. The HSUS has gone undercover at three killing contests in Virginia and witnessed competitors dragging bloody coyotes and foxes to scales for weigh-ins, young children playing among the dead animals and piles of bloodied animals packed onto trucks. These trucks bear stickers and license plates reading, “Coyote Hearse” and “Coyote Taxi”—illustrating an attitude of total disregard for animal lives. Eight states—including Maryland, Massachusetts and Vermont—have already outlawed killing contests and it's time for Virginia to do the same.

Last Name: Burgraff Locality: Williamsburg

I am opposed to animal killing contests. It’s barbaric and inhumane.

Last Name: Sundar Organization: 23060-6132 Locality: Glen Allen

Please stop killing contest.

Last Name: Tomiak Locality: Alexandria

Dear Chair Ware and Members of the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: As a resident of Alexandria, Virginia, I encourage you to support HB1247, which would ban wildlife killing contests. I support this bill because the mass killing of animals that occurs during wildlife killing contests is barbaric, cruel, and wasteful. In killing contests, the carcasses of the animals are usually wasted, and the principles of fair chase are frequently disregarded. Video footage and photos of these events often show contest participants joking about the methods used to lure and kill the animals, and laughing and posing for photos in front of piles of dead animals. Such behavior demonstrates a complete lack of respect for wildlife, promotes gratuitous violence, and sends the irresponsible message that wanton killing is fun. Contests can result in hundreds of animals being wiped off a landscape in a single weekend. An untold number of young animals can be orphaned or injured during these events as well because killing adult animals inevitably leaves dependent young to die from thirst, starvation, predation, or exposure, depending on the time of year the contest is held. Wildlife-killing contests have no place in a civil society or in modern wildlife management. Such contests are antithetical to the conservation ethic that is necessary to ensure the long-term protection of Virginia’s wildlife. Thank you for your time and consideration of this issue. Sincerely, Susan Tomiak

Last Name: Gendron Locality: Chesapeake

I strongly support HB1247 Coyotes or fur-bearing animals; prohibition of killing contests because • Competitors achieve high kill numbers by using unfair and unsporting tactics including night vision, thermal imaging and electronic calling devices. These tactics mimic sounds of dependent young or prey in distress to lure animals in for an easy kill. Animals are then gunned down with high-powered rifles—including AR-15s—which rip holes in the fur, rendering the pelts useless. • Fire departments, sporting goods stores, fairgrounds and churches often host or organize these events in Virginia. • In 2021, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources said “[there is a] misconception that predator killing contests provide benefits to the public and other wildlife species.” State wildlife management agencies, including the Virginia DWR, found that wildlife killing contests and other indiscriminate killing of carnivores do not effectively manage carnivore numbers, prevent livestock attacks or boost populations of game species. • During the Virginia DWR’s recent public comment period about wildlife killing contests, 78% of Virginia respondents were in favor of a rule to ban them. • A national poll released last week found that 80% of Americans oppose wildlife killing contests. • Hunters and wildlife management professionals across the U.S. including the Virginia DWR, have called out killing contests as unethical and warned they are damaging the reputation of hunters and threatening the future of hunting.

Last Name: McPhee Locality: Arlington

I strongly support HB 1247, and I urge you to support it as well. Like many of my fellow residents throughout Virginia, I care about Virginia’s wildlife. I hope the legislature will recognize these contests for what they are: events where participants are encouraged to kill as many animals as possible in exchange for money and prizes. As you may know, in 2021, the Department of Wildlife Resources held public hearings on a proposed rule that, like HB 1247, would have prohibited wildlife killing contests. During the hearings, we heard a number of arguments from opponents of the rule that I expect you will hear again in opposition to HB 1247. These arguments do not withstand scrutiny. Among other things: 1. We heard that a prohibition infringes on the rights of hunters and that their rights are being taken away. However, HB 1247 does not restrict traditional hunting. Other residents of the Commonwealth also have rights. Virginia’s wildlife belongs to all Virginians. 2. We heard that these contests are a great activity for families with children, and that a prohibition is a slippery slope toward restrictions on hunting. I would suggest there is another slippery slope here: teaching children to engage in the wanton killing of animals desensitizes children to violence against other living creatures, including people. The connection between violence toward animals and violence toward people – what is commonly known as “The Link” – is well established. (See, e.g., Understanding the Link between Violence to Animals and People: A Guidebook for Criminal Justice Professionals, available at https://ndaa.org/programs/animal-abuse/). 3. We heard that the truckloads of animals killed in these contests are sold for their fur. However, the demand for fur has been dropping steadily for years, and the fur industry is in decline worldwide. (See, e.g., Is the Fur Industry Quietly Shuttering, https://medium.com/vegan/is-the-fur-industry-quietly-shuttering-1ec1b9204a69 (Nov. 9, 2020)). HB 1247 is a common-sense prohibition on an activity that has no place in Virginia. Maryland recently adopted a similar prohibition that took effect on July 1, 2021, making it the eighth state to ban these types of contests. I hope Virginia will join these other states and enact HB 1247.

Last Name: Draheim Locality: Arlington

Comments Document

My name is Megan Draheim and I’m a Professor in Practice at Virginia Tech’s Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability. I’m a conservation ecologist, and specialize in human-wildlife conflict and interactions. I have a special interest in predators, and much of my research is specifically about coyote-human conflict. I’m grateful for your consideration of a bill to ban wildlife killing contests that target coyotes and other furbearers, and wholeheartedly urge you to support it. While I believe there are important ethical issues that arise from these contests, as a scientist I would like to speak to the science. The mass killing of coyotes, the most common target of these events, does not solve problems for humans. In fact, it can actually increase conflict. The best available, peer-reviewed scientific literature indicates that wildlife killing contests are not an effective wildlife management tool. First, killing contests do not reduce coyote populations. Coyotes are compensatory breeders; killing one can result in several more taking that coyote’s place. Coyotes are social animals and often live in packs where only the dominant pair reproduces. The other members of the pack do not mate but are there to help raise the dominant pair’s pups. However, indiscriminate killing, such as is the result of wildlife killing contests, breaks up these family units. If one or both of the dominant pair is killed, then the number of potential breeding pairs increases as the surviving alpha and other pack members can start to mate; young coyotes have offspring sooner and litter sizes grow. Second, killing wild animals in contests will not protect livestock. In fact, studies demonstrate that such indiscriminate killing can lead to more livestock loss. Most coyotes do not prey on livestock and instead prefer to eat natural foods, such as rodents, insects, and fruit. But packs whose members are randomly killed have more pups and this can force adult coyotes to move to larger and easier targets like sheep just to feed their families. Killing a coyote in a stable pack also makes room for more troublesome coyotes to move in. Coyotes are territorial and so will keep nonpack members out of an area, but if the pack is disrupted, new coyotes will move in, and some of the newcomers might not be as savvy about living near people without conflict. In fact, this idea has led some researchers to jokingly coin the term “livestock guard coyotes.” When the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission banned killing contests in 2020, Commissioner Molly Linville, a cattle rancher, spoke in support of the rule, explaining that coyotes on her ranch are her “only free employees” and that the animals help protect her crops from gophers and other rodents. Finally, research also finds that killing contests will not boost numbers of deer, turkey and other game species. Coyotes do not compete with our hunters for game. The key to healthy game species populations always comes down to good habitat. Studies even show that coyotes can be beneficial to a wide array of game bird species because they suppress populations of smaller carnivores. These contests do not provide good wildlife management, and in fact can increase conflict. In recognition of science and commonsense, I respectfully urge you to ban wildlife killing contests in the Commonwealth.

Last Name: Draheim Locality: Arlington

Comments Document

My name is Megan Draheim and I’m a Professor in Practice at Virginia Tech’s Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability. I’m a conservation ecologist, and specialize in human-wildlife conflict and interactions. I have a special interest in predators, and much of my research is specifically about coyote-human conflict. I’m grateful for your consideration of a bill to ban wildlife killing contests that target coyotes and other furbearers, and wholeheartedly urge you to support it. My detailed comments in support of HB 1247 can be found in the attached PDF.

Last Name: Brown Locality: Roanoke

As a resident of Roanoke , I respectfully ask that you support HB1247, an act to prohibit wildlife killing contests in Virginia. Continuing to allow such events is quite simply an embarrassment for our great state. In wildlife killing contests, contestants compete for cash and prizes to see who can kill the most or the heaviest animals in a specified period of time. Awarding prizes for competitive and indiscriminate killing of our state’s wildlife is unethical and inconsistent with our current understanding of the important role each species plays in the ecosystem. Wildlife killing contests are unsporting and cruel—a blood sport akin to dogfighting or cockfighting. They violate the hunting principles of fair chase—the notion that the hunter should not have an unfair advantage over the animal—and respect for animals and their habitats. To kill the most animals, participants are encouraged to use hightech equipment such as powerful guns and scopes, and electronic calling devices that lure animals in for an easy kill by imitating the sounds of prey or a fellow animal in distress. Countless dependent young may be orphaned during these events, left to die from starvation, predation or exposure. Once the prizes are awarded, the bodies of the animals are often tossed away like trash. These killing contests flout sportsmanship ethics and our state’s treasured outdoors legacy, and instead glorify killing and violence and send a dangerous message to younger generations of hunters who are often encouraged to participate in these events. Some so called “traditions” need to fade away. These contests are also inconsistent with the values of the public majority. The most common victims of killing contests are those deemed to be “pests” because there are almost no laws protecting them. But a 2016 study by Ohio State University shows that American attitudes toward animals—especially historically stigmatized animals such as coyotes—have changed in a positive overall trend in the last several decades. Overall, coyotes are generally well liked. This goes to show that the American public—in whose trust all wildlife is held—recognizes the value in these wild creatures. We should consider the perspective of hunters and other recreationists who respect the role that all native species play in their ecosystems. In numerous studies, both the general public and hunters themselves object to hunting activities that are viewed as unfair, unsporting, inhumane or unsustainable, such as competitions for killing the most animals. Wildlife management agencies and lawmakers in a growing number of states—including Arizona, California, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Vermont and Washington—have banned killing contests in recent years. The Arizona Game and Fish Commission stated, “To the extent these contests reflect on the overall hunting community, public outrage with these events has the potential to threaten hunting as a legitimate wildlife management function.” Similarly, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department said, “These kinds of competitive coyote hunts are raising concerns on the part of the public and could possibly jeopardize the future of hunting and affect access to private lands for all hunters.” Unethical, unscientific and ineffective wildlife killing contests do not reflect fair sportsmanship. In the interest of creating a more humane community, I ask that you vote yes for HB1247.

Last Name: Allen Locality: Fairfax

I strongly support HB 1247. I've seen photos of the aftermath of the Eastern U.S. Predator contests that have occurred in Virginia in recent years and of similar contests. The photos are gruesome and likely would be a surprise to the majority of Virginia residents, who do not participate in, and may not even be aware of, these contests. Hunting has a long tradition in our country and in our Commonwealth and can be a good tool, but these killing contests do not follow that tradition. Killing and piling up bodies of as many dead canines and other animals as possible for fun and sport serves no reasonably tailored conservation or wildlife management purpose, and instead of generating a sense of respect towards wildlife and nature, it treats wildlife as something that can be slaughtered and discarded on a whim, without any thought given to the objects of the contest. During the public meetings that the Virginia DWR held on this topic in 2021, the materials generated by the DWR staff noted that the staff had not found any wildlife management benefit that was conferred by these contests, and 78% of the public comments received by the DWR board supported banning these contests. No matter one's views on hunting, animals such as coyotes, foxes, and bobcats are individuals with at least some measure of intelligence that are doing their best to care for their young and survive, and are worthy of respect. Many residents of Virginia, myself included, simply enjoy having these animals around and watching them from a distance in their natural habitat. We also enjoy the fact that coyotes, foxes, and bobcats help keep rodent populations in check. Many of the hunters I've listened to also talk about this sense of admiration towards wildlife and about participating in nature; they don't talk about wiping it out. Playing a game, where the goal is to shoot, trap, and kill as many canines, bobcats, or other animals as possible, does not serve any conservation purpose, does not help ecosystems or reduce human-wildlife conflict, and does not indicate any respect towards these animals, their families, or their habitat, and I don't believe that it reflects the values of most people in Virginia. Please pass HB 1247 to ban these wildlife killing contests. Thank you for your service and for the opportunity to provide comment.

Last Name: Massa Locality: Virginia Beach

I support HB 1247. Do we need 'killing contests' in our society?

Last Name: Barrow Locality: Lynchburg

I do not believe this bill has a place in Virginia. I have seen many charity big buck contests in my time all of which typically support local nonprofit organizations. Additionally, allowing charity or private party fur bearing completions eases burden on localities to have to institute things such as wildlife bounty programs. Many of these fur bearing animals used for competitions are nuisance species. I strongly disagree with this bill. There is no point in restricting such programs yet allowing the government to operate these programs. Laws should be simple and applicable for everyone not just a chosen few.

HB1261 - State environmental boards; appointment of members to various Boards.
Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Lee-Vandell Organization: American Red Cross, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and the local government Locality: Charlottesville

Comments Document

Dear Delegate, Please think about the many flood disasters Virginia stands to get and begin to protect our most vulnerable people in the flood plain with concrete infrastructure and pumps.. Funding their recovery does not provide protection for everyone, for the community, and doesn’t change anything about the flooding which will just come back again. Do not vote for #5. Thank you. Sincerely, Frances Lee-Vandell

Last Name: Kringer Organization: Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church Locality: Fairfax Station

I strongly urge the committee to defeat HB 5, HB 1261, & HB 1301. HB 1261 would repeal Virginia residents’ participation in important environmental decisions. Public input and public participation in environmental discussions are critical to raising issues of safety, health, social and economic impact, and whether the siting of a project is suitable for the location in which it is proposed. HB 1301 will hinder Virginia's progress toward a clean economy by repealing Virginia's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Virginia's participation in RGGI is a successful effort to reduce pollution while directly helping communities on the front lines. HB 5 diverts funding from the Community Flood Preparedness Fund (FUND) and creates a Flood Relief Fund. This is an inappropriate use of the RGGI funds. The existing FUND is already helping thousands of low-wealth families reduce energy bills and climate impacts, and localities deal with increasingly devastating floods. As a person of conscience, it is essential to oppose bills like HB 5, HB 1261, & HB 1301, which will set Virginians backward in our goal to address the impacts of climate change and reach carbon-free energy by 2050."

Last Name: Remick-Simkins Locality: Fairfax City

I oppose the passage of these bills. We again, face a political opposition to taking care of our own and our environment in these bills. I am particularly dismayed when those proposing these laws claim to be Christians. In fact, passing these bills will ensure that we do the very opposite of what is a truly moral or Christian act. It brings to mind the passage in Matthew 25:34-45. Indeed if we claim that we have a moral authority of any kind - then we will not rescind our participation in the Greenhouse Gas Initiative, will not ensure that our environmental aspirations of caring for not only the Earth but those living in it then what can we truly say of ourselves as a state and a country? I do not want to hear about the economic costs. That is only a smokescreen to protect the proponents of this law from having to live with the consequences of passing these laws. It really does come down to having a commitment to something far greater and more important than ourselves as individuals or our investments and bank accounts. It is a matter of irreversible damage that cannot be undone once we have stepped over the place of no return. Lastly, if any claim pro-life - these laws destroy any credibility of those who stand by that position.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Wayland Locality: Lancaster Co.

Supplemental Comments for full committee consideration: The comment was made in Subcommittee that Virginia is the only state in which a citizen Board makes permit decisions. This is not true. However, if its were true, that would not mean that the Commonwealth's approach is less desirable. We are the only state in which a Governor cannot seek a second consecutive term. Is this bad? Some say yes, some say no. It's just different. While opponents implied that any decision that deviated from DEQ's recommendation would be unscientific, the nature of changes to DEQ's recommendations are not about "science." DEQ's rationale, including science, economics, practicality, etc. are almost always followed and are always considered. DEQ is not infallible, however. In every case during my 10+ years on the Water Board applicants were asked about whether they would be amenable to changes suggested by a Board member and those responses were carefully considered by the Board. This is part of the beauty of open decision-making. Proponents of the Bill did not give one specific example of a problem caused by a decision of the Water Board. All arguments for the legislation were general, not specific. It is reasonable to ask what problem the bill solves before deciding whether it has merit. The Board has had appointees from both parties, rural and urban areas, all geographic regions. Member have had careers in industry, agriculture, law, science, and environmental policy. This diversity of experience is another strength of Virginia's approach.

Last Name: Calvert Organization: Virginia Conservation Network Locality: Richmond

Comments Document

Virginia Conservation Network opposes HB1261. Comments attached.

Last Name: Kellam Locality: Northampton County

I am writing in opposition to HB1261. I am a former member of the State Water Control Board; appointed by Governors Kaine and McAuliffe and also having served under Governor McDonnell. In my experience, Board members strive to be apolitical, uphold Virginia’s laws and regulations, and serve the public as well as the regulated community, all in the interest of the Commonwealth. While day to day operations of DEQ are delegated to the Director, the Citizens boards provide the only opportunity for public hearings on environmental permits that impact the public’s surface water, ground water, wetlands, and air resources. Permit hearings and Board meetings provide the only peak behind the curtain; i.e., the only means of transparency and accountability for a governmental bureaucracy that has a significant impact on the lives of Virginia residents. While it has been extremely rare for a Citizen board to ever reject a recommendation by DEQ staff, it is not rare for Board members to suggest improvements to permit conditions that resolve contentious issues that impact neighbors or the public. I note that in the almost 9 years that I served on the SWCB, I never saw Delegate Bloxom attend any SWCB meeting so that he could see first hand the important work of the citizen board in the permit review process . I urge this committee to reject this proposal as it would be detrimental to the interests of the Commonwealth in protecting the integrity, efficacy and public policy related to the relevant environmental permits.

Last Name: Tretiak Organization: AdvanSix Locality: Richmond

AdvanSix is a leading manufacturer of Nylon 6, a polymer resin which is a synthetic material used by our customers to produce fibers, filaments, engineered plastics and films that, in turn, are used in such end-products as PPE, ventilator tubing, carpets, automotive and electronic components, sports apparel, food packaging and other industrial applications. It is also the world’s largest single-site producer of ammonia sulfate fertilizer with on-site agronomists and technical support. Several of the products produced by ASIX have been deemed essential by the Department of Homeland Security. In Virginia, AdvanSix operates two large Virginia operations with more than 1,200 employees in Hopewell and Chesterfield. AdvanSix supports HB 1261 which reforms the appointment process and authority of the VA DEQ Water Pollution Control Board, Air Pollution Control Board, and Waste Management Board. The reforms will ensure that members picked by the Administration and legislature are qualified to serve and removes the Board’s ability to issue any environmental permit or abridge or deny any environmental permit issued by the Department of Environmental Quality. Virginia is the only state in the US that gives this level of authority to bypass an environmental agency. Virginia is out of step with the nation, especially RGGI states. The reforms promote regulatory predictability and certainty and greatly curtail any political agendas - all necessary to maintain Virginia's competitiveness.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Throp Locality: Norfolk

I strongly oppose bill HB1261, which would repeal permitting authority from the state environmental boards. These boards have relevant expertise in their subject areas and provide the public with opportunities to comment on pending decisions. It would be foolish to eliminate their important role in reviewing permit applications.

Last Name: Wayland Locality: White Stone

I served two terms on the Water Board, appointed by different Governors. This bill seems to be a "solution" in search of a problem. Decision-making by a non-partisan citizen board assures that the public is heard, can be present when a decision is made, and hears the basis for action by Board Members. The Water Board usually adopts DEQ's recommendation, but sometimes that recommendation is changed through the discussion among the applicant, DEQ and the Board. Rarely the Board will make significant changes to permit terms or deny a permit. This public process builds understanding and acceptance of decisions. Board members, who have a variety of perspectives and expertise, come from all areas of the Commonwealth. Decision making by the Water Board does not add a significant amount of time to permit processing. Many dischargers in the Commonwealth are covered by General Permits. Individual permits for large volume dischargers are sometimes controversial and the fact that a Citizen Board considers the permit can add a degree of acceptance to the final decision that action by DEQ might not enjoy. Since Board Members are not compensated, there is not significant cost savings to be realized by transferring permit responsibility to DEQ. I hope to testify in person or virtually and would welcome any questions about my comments.

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

HB1273 - Hunting with dogs; dogs to wear tags.
Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Fritz Locality: Arlington

Our lands and the animals that live on our lands should be protected at every cost. At a time when deforestation and the killing of animals in the U.S. and around the world grows more and more, it is imperative to fight against this. If we do not take action and push legislation to protect our land and the animals that live on them, in the not to distant future they will become less and less until they are no more. Please think about this and help to do what you can to make positive change.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Workman Locality: Chesapeake

I feel strongly about banning killing contests of foxes and coyotes along with banning snare traps which mph are cruel and not necessary. Breeders and dealers should be banned from selling cats and dogs for any kind of scientific experiments due the fact that there is technology available that would work just as well.

Last Name: Brancato Locality: Floyd

508 keep our history alive both the good and bad. We, our children need to be taught the truth about US history 479 removal of large and small damns improves the quality of waterways 323 local and sustainable farms are the key to the future of successful farming. Thomas Jefferson believed this 255 dogs and cats should never be used for inhumane research 206 small renewal energy projects should have been implemented decades ago. We are so behind many countries in preserving our natural resources and increasing and implementing renewable energy sources 140 African American gravesites when discovered should be restored and protected as should all of them 1330 Companion animals should be allowed in more place’s especially on public transportation like Amtrak 1301 clean energy= clean air, water, soil, food and this is a human right 1273 I would like to see hunting bears, deer, raccoons, rabbits, coyote, bobcat foxes completely eliminated. They only terrorize wildlife, there is no “sport” in that. 1247 STOP killing contests of any wildlife!!! This is barbaric 1228 Water quality needs to be of the highest standard. It’s a God-given right 1224 if storm water is managed properly we could avoid massive pollution to our rivers and streams , Bays and Oceans

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Baldwin Locality: Winchester

NA

Last Name: Phillips Locality: Richmond, VA

Please stop hunting animals, breeding animals for research (or in general - adopt!), and other horrific abuse towards innocent creatures!! It is absolutely despicable!

Last Name: Harris Organization: YYYY Locality: Midlothian

Please prohibit "killing contests'" for coyotes or fur-bearing animals in the state of Virginal immediately.

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Sakason Locality: Burke

“Kill contests” or otherwise hunting for sport should be outlawed.

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: Wranek Locality: Lexington

Please end these cruel practices!

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

HB1331 - Hunting dogs, falcons, hawks, or owls; retrieving on posted lands.
Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Gravitt Locality: Mecklenburg

I am writing you today to please show support for HB 1331 and HB 1344. I believe that if dog hunting clubs around the commonwealth obey the laws, they shouldn't have a problem with this bill going forward into law. They say this law isn't necessary. I argue the point that if it were not, then why are they trying so eagerly to defeat it? In my opinion, Delegates that vote against this bill will ultimately vote in favor of law breaking citizens instead of law obeying tax paying landowners. I believe that delegates will get a surprisingly different response than anticipated if they were to poll there districts. Most of the problems aren't the dogs , but the people who own the dogs. They say dogs can't read posted signs, but from the first hand accounts I've seen over the years, neither can the hunters.

Last Name: Nicholls Locality: Chesapeake

Please gently PBI 1331 and 1344. People deserve peace in their homesteads.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Manning Locality: Virginia Beach

I would like it if you would vote on these laws for the animals. Be their voice.

Last Name: Hackett Organization: Sporting Dog Coalition of Va. Locality: Disputanta

This bill doesn't add up. "If a person who has been previously convicted of Trespassing"? This seems to be someone doing someone else a favor and getting this law passed to deal with a troublesome neighbor. Though the SDCV whole heartedly agrees that trespassing is wrong, the Hound Study in 2008 proved that the public was adamantly opposed to putting their contact phone numbers on the posted signs. The truth that is being purposely overlooked is - since the introduction and the continous innovation with GPS collars, the need for hound owners to go upon another persons property has almost gone to zero. The hound owner can see the location of the dog and as long as the dog is mobile, there is no need to go upon anothers property in an attempt to retrieve it unless it is after dark. Just look at the number of trespass cititaions tha have been written in the last 5 years. (11) With over 150,000 hound hunters, that hardly justifies passing a law to address such a miniscule issue.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1176 to prohibit the use of snare/steel traps of any circumference. Such traps cruelty and indiscriminately harm. Though they may be intended for nuisance animal control, they are equally as likely to kill or maim family pets, birds, game animals. Left unattended, as is required for their effectiveness, results in a horrid capture or death. Other, better, methods are available to protect livestock.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Laume Locality: Fairfax County

SUPPORT HB1061 to limit the size of research breeding operations. Large scale operations in factory farming of dogs have shown to be prone to animal welfare violations, including the current facility located in VA. While a limited number of research animals still may be needed by VA's veterinary schools to train the next generations of vets, prohibiting sales to foreign countries limits animals' potential of being placed in animal testing facilities performing tests which are in conflict with VA's no animal testing for cosmetics law, and other ethically questionable research.

Last Name: Bevill Organization: All landowners Locality: Chesapeake & Halifax

We support HB1331 completely. As far as HB1344, we agree the dog owner should reach out to the landowner for permission BEFORE practicing right-to-retrieve (RTR) whether it's in a rural area or urban area (would expect my neighbors to communicate before coming in my backyard for any reason). However, allowing a dog owner to come on my land with a weapon because they "believe" their dog is in danger or any other hypothetical reason is just creating a lot more loopholes and potential legal issues for the citizens and the state. The "dog is in danger" reason is a loop hole that is going to be abused to no end. For this to be even close to acceptable and legal liability relieved, this bill will have to be amended to change "or" to "AND prior written permission MUST be given by the landowner or his/her agent". Would you want your neighbor going in your backyard with a weapon because he/she "thought their dog was in danger" without your consent? If not, be prepared for lawsuits...

Last Name: Bevill Organization: All landowners Locality: Chesapeake & Halifax

We support HB1331 completely. As far as HB1344, we agree the dog owner should reach out to the landowner for permission BEFORE practicing right-to-retrieve (RTR) whether it's in a rural area or urban area (would expect my neighbors to communicate before coming in my backyard for any reason). However, allowing a dog owner to come on my land with a weapon because they "believe" their dog is in danger or any other hypothetical reason is just creating a lot more loopholes and potential legal issues for the citizens and the state. The "dog is in danger" reason is a loop hole that is going to be abused to no end. For this to be even close to acceptable and legal liability relieved, this bill will have to be amended to change "or" to "AND prior written permission MUST be given by the landowner or his/her agent". Would you want your neighbor going in your backyard with a weapon because he/she "thought their dog was in danger" without your consent? If not, be prepared for lawsuits...

Last Name: Bevill Organization: All landowners Locality: Chesapeake & Halifax

We support HB1331 completely. As far as HB1344, we agree the dog owner should reach out to the landowner for permission BEFORE practicing right-to-retrieve (RTR) whether it's in a rural area or urban area (would expect my neighbors to communicate before coming in my backyard for any reason). However, allowing a dog owner to come on my land with a weapon because they "believe" their dog is in danger or any other hypothetical reason is just creating a lot more loopholes and potential legal issues for the citizens and the state. The "dog is in danger" reason is a loop hole that is going to be abused to no end. For this to be even close to acceptable and legal liability relieved, this bill will have to be amended to change "or" to "AND prior written permission MUST be given by the landowner or his/her agent". Would you want your neighbor going in your backyard with a weapon because he/she "thought their dog was in danger" without your consent? If not, be prepared for lawsuits...

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

I support HB 1331. Too many rogue hunters have terrorized our neighbors with this practice. they must be stopped

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Bird Locality: Midlothian

Encouraging your support on the above bills

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Bicking Locality: Chesterfield

Protect our wildlife and water resources. Restrict hunting on sundays. No snares or trapping. No animals gor research.

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Sowa Locality: Fairfax

Time for Republicans to do what the DemocRATS were afraid/unable to do and protect the rights of all (domestic and wild) animals by implementing humane laws.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Harper Locality: Richmond city

Protect Virginia's environment from Republiklans

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

Last Name: Hicks Locality: Stafford, Fredericksburg

Protection of Land, Water, Air, Soil and all animals is up to us and for future generations a must.

Last Name: Schlessinger Locality: Nellysford

HB523 Research or experimentation of any kind should be prohibited with all animals especially dogs and cats

HB1344 - Hunters, certain; right to go on lands of another.
Last Name: Harris Locality: Remington

I live across the street from a wildlife management area. Please don't allow hunting on Sunday. It is the only day of the week when there is any peace and quiet for me, my pets and the wildlife during hunting season.

Last Name: Rohn Locality: McLean

Please email the above mentioned bills to me.

Last Name: Gravitt Locality: Mecklenburg

I am writing you today to please show support for HB 1331 and HB 1344. I believe that if dog hunting clubs around the commonwealth obey the laws, they shouldn't have a problem with this bill going forward into law. They say this law isn't necessary. I argue the point that if it were not, then why are they trying so eagerly to defeat it? In my opinion, Delegates that vote against this bill will ultimately vote in favor of law breaking citizens instead of law obeying tax paying landowners. I believe that delegates will get a surprisingly different response than anticipated if they were to poll there districts. Most of the problems aren't the dogs , but the people who own the dogs. They say dogs can't read posted signs, but from the first hand accounts I've seen over the years, neither can the hunters.

Last Name: Nicholls Locality: Chesapeake

Please gently PBI 1331 and 1344. People deserve peace in their homesteads.

Last Name: Gresham Locality: Powhatan

Please protect our well water in Powhatan. Well water should be protected just like public water.

Last Name: Moore Locality: Petersburg

Please end wildlife killing! HB1247 must stay in place. Please support this Bill. Killing mercilessly for entertainment needs to stop!! It is time to move forward

Last Name: Manning Locality: Virginia Beach

I would like it if you would vote on these laws for the animals. Be their voice.

Last Name: Hackett Organization: Sporting Dog Coalition of Virginia Locality: Disputanta

To be honest. I have reserves about this bill. It is not needed, If a true houndsman thinks that his dog is in peril, he is going to go upon the property with or without anyones permission and pay the necessary penalties. No good houndsman will allow their dog to suffer because the law says he can't go get it. I think when we start making loop holes, we open a box of confusion. We are talking about a rare event and in most every case, the hound owner will have a tracking system in hand to locate the dog and to prove its existence and the owners justification of being on the property. This does not justify changing the law. RTR allows the dog owner to retrieve his dog anytime. As long as the dog is mobile and can be tracked by the tracking device, there is really no need to ever go upon another person's property. If the dog becomes immobile, then the dog may need help.

Last Name: Bevill Organization: All landowners Locality: Chesapeake & Halifax

We support HB1331 completely. As far as HB1344, we agree the dog owner should reach out to the landowner for permission BEFORE practicing right-to-retrieve (RTR) whether it's in a rural area or urban area (would expect my neighbors to communicate before coming in my backyard for any reason). However, allowing a dog owner to come on my land with a weapon because they "believe" their dog is in danger or any other hypothetical reason is just creating a lot more loopholes and potential legal issues for the citizens and the state. The "dog is in danger" reason is a loop hole that is going to be abused to no end. For this to be even close to acceptable and legal liability relieved, this bill will have to be amended to change "or" to "AND prior written permission MUST be given by the landowner or his/her agent". Would you want your neighbor going in your backyard with a weapon because he/she "thought their dog was in danger" without your consent? If not, be prepared for lawsuits...

Last Name: Bevill Organization: All landowners Locality: Chesapeake & Halifax

We support HB1331 completely. As far as HB1344, we agree the dog owner should reach out to the landowner for permission BEFORE practicing right-to-retrieve (RTR) whether it's in a rural area or urban area (would expect my neighbors to communicate before coming in my backyard for any reason). However, allowing a dog owner to come on my land with a weapon because they "believe" their dog is in danger or any other hypothetical reason is just creating a lot more loopholes and potential legal issues for the citizens and the state. The "dog is in danger" reason is a loop hole that is going to be abused to no end. For this to be even close to acceptable and legal liability relieved, this bill will have to be amended to change "or" to "AND prior written permission MUST be given by the landowner or his/her agent". Would you want your neighbor going in your backyard with a weapon because he/she "thought their dog was in danger" without your consent? If not, be prepared for lawsuits...

Last Name: Bevill Organization: All landowners Locality: Chesapeake & Halifax

We support HB1331 completely. As far as HB1344, we agree the dog owner should reach out to the landowner for permission BEFORE practicing right-to-retrieve (RTR) whether it's in a rural area or urban area (would expect my neighbors to communicate before coming in my backyard for any reason). However, allowing a dog owner to come on my land with a weapon because they "believe" their dog is in danger or any other hypothetical reason is just creating a lot more loopholes and potential legal issues for the citizens and the state. The "dog is in danger" reason is a loop hole that is going to be abused to no end. For this to be even close to acceptable and legal liability relieved, this bill will have to be amended to change "or" to "AND prior written permission MUST be given by the landowner or his/her agent". Would you want your neighbor going in your backyard with a weapon because he/she "thought their dog was in danger" without your consent? If not, be prepared for lawsuits...

Last Name: Guloglu Locality: Falls Church

Please stop this cruelty

Last Name: Little Locality: Fredericksburg

I oppose HB 1344. Hunters need to stop trespassing on those who do not want them on their land.

Last Name: Turner Locality: Union Hall

Nothing

Last Name: Baker Locality: VA Beach

Animal cruelty is never excusable. They are living being with feelings- pain, fear, sadness, loyalty. Selling companion animals for experimentation is despicable. Trapping an animal to suffer agony is despicable. People are judged by how they treat other beings unable to defend themselves. Hunting for trophies is wrong. Trapping for fur is wrong. Mistreatment of hunting dogs is wrong. Discarding dogs to fend for themselves when hunting season is over is despicable. Hunters roaming around someone’s land without permission is just rude for starters. Humans are supposed to be protective of the environment.

Last Name: Reeves Locality: Prince william county

I support the Humane Society of the United States' positions pertaining to your particular bill(s). I do believe HSUS adheres to and promotes the highest standards of integrity in the issues of animal issues, the environment, human concerns, et. al. I hope you can vote with that perspective in mind.

Last Name: Leishear Locality: Falls Church

Any and all contest hunting should be illegal. No hunter should have the right to go onto another person's land to hunt without written permission from the land owner. No cats or dogs should be sold or bred for the purpose of " research." Please take a note of Dr. Anthony Fauci's unimaginable cruel and painful animal research projects. Snare traps should be illegal unless placed where the hunter will step on it.

Last Name: El-Quesny Locality: Fairfax

Please stop this heinous act.

Last Name: Lindskog Locality: PWC

Please stop the unnecessary killings by of the poor wildlife.We have already taken a lot of their habitat and now allowing this mass murdering of these voiceless animals by the sick people. Thank you

Last Name: El Hassani Locality: Fairfax

Please stop animal cruelty!

Last Name: Weisstanner Locality: Norfolk

I support any bill that will provide enhanced protection for wildlife. They have no voices to speak for themselves and as we encroach on their habitat, they struggle to survive without humans killing them for fun. Domestic animals, livestock, and pets also deserve as much protection as we can give them. Hunters should not be allowed on private land. I also support any environmental effort that will protect our natural resources, environment, and wildlife.

Last Name: smith Organization: self Locality: Williamsburg

pass all of the laws above

Last Name: Petras Locality: Verona

The greatness of a nation and its MORAL PROGRESS can be judged by the way it treats its animals, its wilderness and its most vulnerable inhabitants.

Last Name: Pellek Locality: Norfolk

Good Afternoon, I am submitting my support of the above items. I strongly feel that we need to put more time and planning on what we are doing to our animals, that are due the same respect as we all inhabits of our planet, and out planet. We only have one earth and we have not been responsible on how we treated her.

Last Name: Cromwell Locality: Leesburg

HB1061 - Breeding animals for foreign testing I am vehemently opposed to breeding animals for testing of any kind, and the thought that we are allowing breeding animals to then suffer even more by shipping them to a foreign country to only be subjected to cruel and inhumane testing is just horrific. Please take steps to protect the sanctity of ALL life, human and animal.

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