House TRW advances bill allowing blood‑trailing dogs for black bears
February 25, 2026 | Joint & Standing, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
CHEYENNE — The House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources Committee advanced Senate File 27 on a roll call vote after members heard testimony that the change would allow blood‑trailing dogs to be used to locate wounded or harvested black bears under the same rules that apply to other big game.
Senator Landon, who presented the bill, said it amends the statute that governs use of blood‑trailing dogs to add black bear and ‘‘doesn’t change a thing’’ about the existing restrictions. Dan Smith, chief game warden and wildlife division chief for the Game and Fish Department, told the committee the 2019 law that expanded blood‑trailing to big game left black bear out because it was classified as ‘‘trophy game.’’ Under the bill, hunters seeking to use a blood‑trailing dog would still need the dog on a leash no longer than about 50 feet, wear fluorescent orange, and comply with euthanasia rules and the 72‑hour window in the statute.
"This bill would allow black bear hunters to have that same ability," Smith said, adding the change could help find wounded animals sooner so they are not left in the field.
Supporters from hunting and tracking groups offered personal evidence. Jess Johnson of the Wyoming Wildlife Federation urged the committee to keep the bill species‑specific and said, "Don't make it trophy game." Julie McAllister, representing Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery, described field experience in tracking bears and said, "My personal dog, Eddie, did a 320 yard track with 0 blood," demonstrating the recoveries volunteers can achieve.
After public comment and brief committee discussion, Representative Harshman moved the measure and Representative Campbell seconded. The clerk recorded nine ayes and the committee advanced SF27 to the floor.
Next steps: The committee indicated members who are sponsors will coordinate on floor sponsorship and scheduling. The bill text retains the statute’s existing operational requirements; the committee did not adopt amendments.
Vote at a glance: Committee roll call produced nine ayes; the clerk announced the tally and the bill was advanced.
Senator Landon, who presented the bill, said it amends the statute that governs use of blood‑trailing dogs to add black bear and ‘‘doesn’t change a thing’’ about the existing restrictions. Dan Smith, chief game warden and wildlife division chief for the Game and Fish Department, told the committee the 2019 law that expanded blood‑trailing to big game left black bear out because it was classified as ‘‘trophy game.’’ Under the bill, hunters seeking to use a blood‑trailing dog would still need the dog on a leash no longer than about 50 feet, wear fluorescent orange, and comply with euthanasia rules and the 72‑hour window in the statute.
"This bill would allow black bear hunters to have that same ability," Smith said, adding the change could help find wounded animals sooner so they are not left in the field.
Supporters from hunting and tracking groups offered personal evidence. Jess Johnson of the Wyoming Wildlife Federation urged the committee to keep the bill species‑specific and said, "Don't make it trophy game." Julie McAllister, representing Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery, described field experience in tracking bears and said, "My personal dog, Eddie, did a 320 yard track with 0 blood," demonstrating the recoveries volunteers can achieve.
After public comment and brief committee discussion, Representative Harshman moved the measure and Representative Campbell seconded. The clerk recorded nine ayes and the committee advanced SF27 to the floor.
Next steps: The committee indicated members who are sponsors will coordinate on floor sponsorship and scheduling. The bill text retains the statute’s existing operational requirements; the committee did not adopt amendments.
Vote at a glance: Committee roll call produced nine ayes; the clerk announced the tally and the bill was advanced.
Don't Miss a Word: See the Full Meeting!
Go beyond summaries. Unlock every video, transcript, and key insight with a Founder Membership.
✓
Get instant access to full meeting videos
✓
Search and clip any phrase from complete transcripts
✓
Receive AI-powered summaries & custom alerts
✓
Enjoy lifetime, unrestricted access to government data
30-day money-back guarantee
