Raptors are an essential part of our ecosystem and are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act for valid reasons. However, KY Senate Bill 59 proposes amendments to KRS 150.330 and KRS 150.990 which threaten these protections, allowing for fines and penalties associated with the take of Cooper's Hawks or Red-Tailed Hawks to be waived by state law enforcement.  This would allow for the legal killing of these birds.

Senator Gary Boswell is proposing this legislation and has unfortunately misled us about several key factors surrounding these changes - from falsely claiming that presidents have altered laws, misrepresenting small game animal populations, to even misidentifying the birds targeted by his legislation.

These inaccuracies coupled with a lack of consultation with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife (KDFWR) raise serious concerns about both the intent behind these amendments and their potential impact on our local wildlife.

Cooper's Hawks and Red-Tailed Hawks play vital roles in maintaining balance in our ecosystem. Their protection under law should not be compromised based on misinformation or political maneuvering.

We must stand together as Kentuckians who care about our environment, wildlife conservation, and truth in legislative processes to oppose these proposed changes. Sign this petition today to show your support for protecting Cooper's Hawks and Red-Tailed Hawk species within Kentucky!

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/24rs/sb59.html#:~:text=Senate%20Bill%2059,-Actions&text=Amend%20KRS%20150.330%20to%20prohibit,hawks%20from%20fines%20and%20penalties

Let us band together with our shared love, respect, and appreciation of these birds to stop this legislation.