As a resident of Rawlins, Wyoming, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of avicide on our local raven population. This experience has compelled me to advocate for a change in our municipal code that currently allows poisoning under certain circumstances.

Rawlins Municipal Code 6.04.030 currently states that no person shall willfully kill, maim or disfigure any animal except as affirmatively provided in this Code, or administer poison or cause to be ingested any foreign object to any such animal, or expose any poisonous substance with the intent that it shall be taken by any such animal - with an exception for "pests of public health importance."

This exception is problematic and open-ended; it can potentially allow other governing bodies to carry out acts of cruelty against animals under a number of guises.

Our community values ethical and moral fortitude and we must reflect these values in our laws. We need an amendment that removes this exception entirely from the code - ensuring all animals are protected from intentional harm through poisoning.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that thousands of cases involving poisoned pets are reported each year across America (source: ASPCA). It's time we take a stand against this form of cruelty within our own community.

By signing this petition you're supporting an amendment to Rawlins Municipal Code 6.04.030 which would unequivocally prohibit all forms of intentional animal poisoning within our city limits - without exceptions.