New Mexico Senate OKs bill to ban coyote-killing contests

The New Mexico Senate has approved a measure that would ban coyote-killing contests.

The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Mark Moores of Albuquerque and Democrat Rep. Jeff Steinborn was approved on a 27-13 vote Friday. It now heads to the House for consideration.

Moores says the bill would end coyote-killing contests without restricting the ability of farmers and ranchers to protect their livestock.

Animal rights advocates applaud the legislation. Critics say it encroaches on property rights.

In October, a southeastern New Mexico gun shop drew criticism for hosting a coyote-hunting competition. It was one of many gun shops that have hosted similar events in which winners receive prizes such as firearms.

In 2012, a hunt sponsored by a Los Lunas shop sparked an online petition and an FBI investigation after the shop owner was threatened.