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Legislation increasing the fines and penalties for killing certain animals in Michigan is awaiting the governor’s signature.
The three bill package cleared both the Michigan House and Senate this week.
State Representative Lisa Posthumus Lyons says forcing poachers to pay hefty fines for killing animals they shouldn’t is a good detractor and sends a message the practice won’t be tolerated in the state.
However State Representative Ed McBroom fears the new fines will hurt a hunter who made an honest mistake.
He also doesn’t think upping fines for killing non-trophy animals is fair.
Under the legislation, killing an elk would net someone a $5,000 fine, up from $1,500. Do it a second time and you lose your hunting license for life.
The measures also increase the fines and penalties for killing a moose, bear and eagle.
