ANNAPOLIS, MD - Governor Wes Moore has enacted a new Maryland law sponsored by an Eastern Shore lawmaker aimed at protecting native bat species while encouraging the state’s forestry industry.
Senate Bill 946 was drafted to allow the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to create a permit process for the incidental taking of northern long-eared bats, tri-colored bats, Indiana bats, and the Eastern small-footed bat. Incidental taking is any unintentional but not unexpected harm or disruption caused to a species, according to the Endangered Species Act.
SB 946 was sponsored by State Senator Mary Beth Carozza who represents Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties. Delegate Jay Jacobs, representing the Upper Shore, also cosponsored the bill.
“This bill is a measured and fair approach which promotes long-term conservation of these endangered bill species while ensuring necessary land management of Maryland’s forests,” said Senator Carozza. “It’s a conservation bill that protects bats and allows for responsible forestry and land management to continue.”
The new law was requested by the Maryland Forest Association according to Carozza, which is made up of landowners, loggers, and foresters. Carozza says will support land management activities while contributing to bat conservation.
In her testimony in support of the bill, Carozza said Maryland already allows the incidental taking of the Delmarva Fox Squirrel and the Puritan Tiger Beetle.
Moore signed the legislation on May 13, with Carozza donning a bat tie for the event. Executive Director of the Maryland Forests Association Beth Hill also presented Moore with his own bat tie.
