To the editor:
Governor Murphy can stop the bear hunt. The New Jersey governor has broad powers, and he can issue an executive order to stop the hunt on all lands in New Jersey.
Closing off state parks from hunters will not help the black bears at all. Hunters will still be able to kill them on federal, municipal and private lands. A common practice used by hunters is to lure the bears to hunting areas by tempting them with food.
The claim that Murphy cannot stop it comes from a lawsuit in 2005 – but does not apply to him. Only the state Department of Environmental Commissioner is unable to stop the hunt.
Governor Murphy, you promised and committed to stopping the hunt and pursuing non-violent methods of co-existing with wildlife. Please keep your word.
Jeanne Sylvester
Wayne