By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (April 4, 2025) —
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In response to a tragic mountain lion attack that resulted in the death of 21-year-old Taylen Robert Claude Brooks and injuries to his 18-year-old brother, Wyatt Brooks, the California State Senate is reviewing Senate Bill 818, also known as the “Taylen and Wyatt Law.”
Incident Overview
In March 2024, the Brooks brothers were searching for shed antlers in a remote area of El Dorado County when they were attacked by a mountain lion. Taylen Brooks succumbed to his injuries, marking California’s first fatal mountain lion attack in two decades. Wyatt Brooks sustained non-fatal injuries and has since been recovering.
Legislative Response
Introduced by Senator Alvarado-Gil in February 2025, SB 818 aims to establish a five-year pilot program in El Dorado County. This program would permit qualified houndspersons to use non-lethal methods to haze and deter mountain lions identified as potential threats. The bill seeks to restore the natural wariness of mountain lions toward humans and reduce risks to livestock, pets, and communities.
Provisions of SB 818
The proposed legislation mandates collaboration between the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), federal and state trapping experts, and interested nonprofit organizations to develop criteria and procedures for registering authorized houndspersons. Participants would be required to purchase an annual hazing permit, with fees determined by the department to cover program implementation costs.
Community and Expert Opinions
The bill has elicited diverse reactions. Supporters argue that non-lethal hazing can effectively mitigate mountain lion threats. Critics, including the Mountain Lion Foundation, contend that the bill contradicts the California Wildlife Protection Act of 1990 (Proposition 117) and could lead to increased harassment of mountain lions.
Mountain Lion Activity in California
Mountain lion attacks on humans are rare. Since 1890, fewer than 50 verified attacks have occurred in California, with six resulting in fatalities. Notably, two incidents took place in El Dorado County in March 2024, including the attack on the Brooks brothers.
Next Steps
SB 818 is scheduled for a hearing on April 22. Stakeholders from various sectors are expected to provide testimony as the Senate deliberates on the bill’s potential impact on wildlife management and public safety in El Dorado County.
For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to El Dorado County News.
