Governor Signs Wolf-Livestock Coexistence Bill
Published Friday, October 2, 2026
As noted in the legislative breakdown, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1135 by state Sen. Catherine Blakespear, D-Encinitas, establishing the Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program in state law. Given the importance of this issue to Farm Bureau members, here is a closer look at what the new law means for livestock producers.
The law provides compensation for confirmed or probable livestock losses and indirect losses such as reduced weight gain or lower conception rates. It also explicitly allows working livestock guardian dogs to pursue wolves while defending livestock. To qualify for loss payments in active wolf territory, ranchers must use nonlethal deterrents. The law requires those measures to account for practical considerations, including feasibility, rough terrain, equipment costs, lease restrictions and standard livestock management practices.
At least half of the program’s overall funding must be directed toward providing producers with nonlethal tools and equipment, helping offset out-of-pocket costs. Under the previous program, approximately two-thirds of funding was used by ranchers seeking assistance with nonlethal deterrents. The new law follows the allocation of $5 million in late August for direct livestock losses and wolf conflict management.
Staff contact: Steven Fenaroli, sfenaroli@cfbf.com.
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