The American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee has introduced Senate Bill 25-053, titled "Protect Wild Bison," aiming to reclassify bison in Colorado. Key aspects of the bill include:
Reclassification of Bison: Bison will be designated as big game wildlife unless they are classified as livestock. This change means that hunting or taking bison will be illegal unless authorized by rules set by the Parks and Wildlife Commission.
Cultural and Ecological Significance: The bill acknowledges the importance of bison to Indigenous communities and aims to protect their cultural heritage.
Regulated Management: By classifying bison as wildlife, the bill seeks to establish a framework for their management and conservation under the jurisdiction of Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
This legislative effort reflects a move towards recognizing and preserving the cultural and ecological roles of bison in Colorado.
Summary
American Indian Affairs Interim Study Committee. The bill
classifies bison as big game wildlife unless the bison are livestock. Classifying bison as wildlife means that hunting or taking one is illegal unless authorized by rule of the parks and wildlife commission.
