The Senate Site: Protecting the Bald Eagle

"We need to do all we can to ensure the bald eagle, a symbol of our nation, is here for future generations to enjoy."

-Robin Thomas, DWR’s Marketing Coordinator.

On Monday February 9th, lawmakers passed a bill to increase the fine for killing a bald eagle. HB 34 was first presented by Representative Roger Barrus. After passing the House, Senator Margaret Dayton sponsored the bill in the Senate where it passed unanimously. The bill is on its way to Governor Jon Huntsman to be signed.

The history of HB 34 dates back to 2003 when the Bald Eagle was removed from the endangered species list. Since being withdrawn from the list, there have been 24 cases of illegal killings of bald eagles and six citations. When de-listed, the restitution value for killing a Bald Eagle dropped to $100. HB 34 sets the fine to $1000, which is the same as before it was taken off the list. “The bald eagle is so rare because it came off the endangered species list. It still needs protecting,” Robin said.

The bill came across a few questions regarding livestock depredation which have already been covered by the DWR. Rules have been set in place that enables the livestock owners to be paid back for any animals they may have lost.

The Utah Division of Wildlife is very appreciative of Rep. Barrus and Sen. Dayton for sponsoring SB 34.

When asked about her bill, Senator Dayton said,

“I’d like the state to do all they can to keep every animal off the endangered species list. I was pleased to support a bill that helped achieve that common goal that many of us share.”