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New Jersey bill threatens future of outdoor sports (6/6/2003) A New Jersey senator has introduced a bill that would hand wildlife management authority to animal rights activists. Senator Joseph Vitale's (D-Woodbridge) Senate Bill 2603 expands the New Jersey Fish and Game Council to 19 from the current 11. The Commissioner of Environmental Protection would fill one of the new positions. The other seven seats are earmarked for animal rights or environmental activists. Sportsmen members are capped at six, guaranteeing hunters and anglers a minority voice in fish and wildlife policy matters. The measure also removes critical management authority from the director of the Division of Fish and Wildlife, and gives it to the Commissioner of Environmental Protection. Brad Campbell, the current commissioner, frequently sides with animal rights groups over hunting issues, including the debate over whether to establish a bear-hunting season. In 2001, sportsmen contributed $14.5 million, or 80 percent, of the funds used to manage fish and wildlife in New Jersey. Animal rights and environmental activists contribute nothing, but would be granted majority control over fish and wildlife policy. The bill essentially guts the authority of the Fish and Game Council, and gives it to the Commissioner of Environmental Protection. It specifically grants the Commissioner the authority to suspend hunting seasons without a public hearing or the consent of the Fish and Game Council. All changes and decisions made by the council will have to be approved by the Commissioner as well. Take Action! If this bill passes, animal rights activists will have the power to make and set wildlife regulations in New Jersey. Sportsmen in the state must act now to stop the bill in its tracks. Call your legislators and tell them to oppose Senate Bill 2603. Tell them that the bill will put successful wildlife programs at risk in New Jersey. To find your legislator, call (800) 792-8630. CopyrightÓ U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance- www.ussportsmen.org
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