Is California Becoming a Poacher Sanctuary? | Jerry Karnow on Wildlife Crime & AB 1950

Retired California Fish and Wildlife Officer Jerry Karnow returns to the Power House Podcast to talk with Topo Padilla about the political fight over wildlife protection in California.

In this episode, Jerry explains how changes to misdemeanor probation laws under AB 1950 affected Fish and Game Code enforcement, why many serious poaching cases are harder to prosecute, and why he believes California wildlife may be less protected than ever. He also discusses his work at the State Capitol, past bipartisan efforts to strengthen penalties for egregious wildlife crimes, and the letter he recently delivered to Governor Gavin Newsom’s office urging action.

Topo and Jerry also discuss mountain lions, bears, wolves, public safety, depredation laws, and what citizens can do to contact their legislators and speak up for wildlife protection.

Watch Part 1 with Jerry Karnow for more on his career as a California game warden and his work protecting wildlife.

Topics include:

California wildlife crime, poaching laws, AB 1950, Fish and Game enforcement, mountain lions, bears, wolves, depredation permits, California legislation, and protecting wildlife.

Watch Power House Podcast on SacLife.TV, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeart.