(WXYZ) — Governor Whitmer has vetoed a bill that would have allowed deer baiting in Michigan.
The bill would have removed the ban on baiting and feeding during the open season for deer or elk.
Whitmer argued that using bait increases the chances of Chronic Wasting Disease spreading to other deer.
“I remain fully committed to protecting Michigan’s wildlife, public health, and agriculture jobs,” Whitmer said in a release. “This legislation would’ve increased the chance of spreading wildlife disease within wildlife populations and the beef and dairy industries, which are vital to Michigan’s economy. That’s not a risk we can afford to take."
The bill's sponsors have said that the ban is hurting outdoor enthusiasts and local businesses.
Whitmer also argued that the bill ignored the will of Michigan voters, who "overwhelmingly" decided to give authority for wildlife management to the Natural Resources Commission.
