Bear Ban Probe Costs Surge | Spokane News

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is under fire in a ballooning, costly probe that’s already hit nearly $80,000—and could top $130,000—far exceeding the original budget and timeline. Originally slated for completion last fall, the investigation now aims for July 31st, even as the investigator’s contract extends through August. Sparked by the commission’s 2022 ban on spring black bear hunting and subsequent petitions to remove commissioners, the probe has stalled with no updates to those interviewed—and even the groups that pushed for it remain in the dark. With the governor holding the power to remove commissioners if misconduct is found, all eyes are on the final report—and the wait just got a lot longer. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/693b916471d6c320