The Honorable
George Pataki, Governor
Executive Chamber
State Capitol
Albany, New York 12224
Fax: 518-474-1513
August 6, 2003
Dear Governor
Pataki:
Wildlife Watch,
Inc. is an animal protection organization that seeks to educate the public
about the mismanagement of wildlife by state and federal wildlife
agencies, and the destruction of wildlife and ecosystems in the name of
sport hunting and game management.
We were happy to
learn that A.4609, the Canned Hunting Bill, has been passed by both houses
of the New York Legislature and is now waiting for your signature. On
behalf of our 12,000 New York members and supporters, we urge you to sign
this bill into law.
As you know, the
barbarity of canned hunts has been outlawed in fourteen states, including
neighboring Massachusetts and New Jersey. In 1999, New York State passed
legislation banning canned shoots involving non-native big game mammals in
areas less than 10 acres. While this is a good start, your signature on
A.4609 is needed to prohibit the killing, shooting, maiming or injuring of
all intentionally confined animals for sport, amusement or the taking of a
trophy, in areas of any size.
Wildlife Watch,
Inc. and its members and supporters respectfully urge you to sign the
canned hunt bill into law. It is an important piece of legislation that
is long overdue.
We eagerly await
your response to our concerns on this very important piece of legislation.
Sincerely,
Joe Miele