New legislation to possibly allow more hunting for Utah’s largest predators

New legislation could potentially allow for more hunting permits for Utah's largest predators.

House Bill 25 from Republican Representative Carl Albrecht would require the Division of Wildlife Resources to increase the number of hunting permits for mountain lions and black bears should the mule deer and elk populations fall below desired levels.

Hunters believe tough winters and a growing population of predator species have made it harder for fawns to survive into adulthood.

Scientists note the predators remove sick animals from herds, reducing the chances of deadly diseases spreading.