Farm Bureau Urges Governor's Signature on AB 1722 to Protect Farmers and Ranchers
Published Friday, September 4, 2026
California Farm Bureau is urging the governor to sign Assembly Bill 1722 by Assemblymember Heather Hadwick, R-Alturas, a narrowly tailored bill that would protect individuals who reasonably and necessarily defend themselves, their families or others from an immediate threat of bodily harm posed by wildlife protected under the California Endangered Species Act.
Human-wildlife conflicts are becoming an increasing concern for farmers and ranchers across California. Producers working in remote areas can encounter wolves, mountain lions, bears, coyotes and other wildlife while tending livestock or working their land. These encounters can result in livestock losses and added costs, but they can also present legitimate safety concerns—particularly when emergency assistance is not immediately available.
California farmers and ranchers support responsible wildlife conservation. However, they should not have to choose between protecting human life and potentially facing significant penalties under state wildlife laws.
AB 1722 would provide a limited public-safety defense when a person uses necessary and reasonable force to prevent an immediate threat of bodily harm. Federal law already provides a similar defense under the federal Endangered Species Act. AB 1722 would bring California law more closely in line with that approach while maintaining a high threshold for its application.
Staff contact: Richard Filgas, rfilgas@cfbf.com.
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