Sangamon Sun

Yesterday, the House passed HB2900 with a roll call of 62-45. This bill prohibits hunting competitions involving fur-bearing animals such as coyotes, raccoons, and squirrels. Rep. Rosenthal voiced opposition to the bill, highlighting the role these competitions play in controlling animal populations, particularly predators, and their significance for local communities.

Rosenthal criticized the sponsor of the bill for being out of touch with the potential impact on communities and non-profit organizations that often use these competitions as fundraising events. The sponsor defended her stance by referring to coyotes as part of the "web of life," seemingly overlooking the threat they pose to livestock, pets, and children in rural areas when overpopulated.

Rosenthal expressed concern that despite these competitions not violating any Department of Natural Resources (DNR) rules or regulations, they are under attack from Democrats. He pointed out that while anyone can hunt coyotes year-round in Illinois, local competitions are being labeled as inhumane.

The passage of HB2900 could spell an end to numerous fundraisers contributing significant sums to local charities aiding veterans, first responders, disabled youth hunters among others. As an example, Rosenthal mentioned the Squirrel Bowl held in Carlinville which raises $200,000 annually for veterans and schoolchildren.

He also highlighted concerns about overpopulation of raccoons and coyotes. Raccoons are destructive by nature; their overpopulation leads to crop destruction prompting local farm bureaus to place bounties on them - a practice HB2900 aims to ban.

Coyotes pose a threat to rural families, their pets and livestock throughout the year due to their position at the top of the food chain without natural enemies. Human intervention is required both to protect other wildlife species and prevent these predators from becoming comfortable within neighborhoods and communities. Both The Farm Bureau and Beef Producers have expressed opposition towards HB2900.

As it stands, HB2900 has 936 opponents and 239 proponents.