Yes — setting traps that kill or injure mice in your house would become illegal if the PEACE Act (IP 28) passes.Here’s exactly why, straight from the official bill text:1. Mice are fully protected animalsThe act defines “animal” as any nonhuman mammal (mice qualify). They get the same legal protections currently given only to dogs and cats.2. It explicitly removes the pest-control loopholeOregon law currently has this exemption (ORS 167.335):
“Reasonable activities undertaken in connection with the control of vermin or pests”
The PEACE Act strikes that entire line (Section 9). Same for other exemptions like hunting/trapping and wildlife management. No more free pass for killing rodents.3. Killing them becomes “animal abuse”The new rule (amended ORS 167.320):
A person commits the crime of animal abuse in the first degree if the person intentionally, knowingly or recklessly … Causes the death of an animal
(except to defend against immediate harm to yourself, other humans, or other animals — or as part of good veterinary practice)
- Snap traps, glue traps, poison bait, or any lethal method = intentional killing → misdemeanor crime (Class B, up to 364 days in jail and fines; escalates with repeat offenses).
- Even if you’re just trying to protect your home or prevent disease, it no longer matters. The old “reasonable pest control” defense is gone.
The only narrow exceptions
- Self-defense — only if the mouse poses an immediate threat (e.g., a rabid one actively attacking). A normal house mouse infestation almost certainly doesn’t qualify.
- Vet care — you’d have to hire a vet to do it humanely (impractical and expensive for most people).
What about “humane” live traps?The proponents of the PEACE Act themselves say this is still okay. They emphasize in public statements that the measure “does not prevent ‘trapping’ mice, since humane traps have been around for a long time” — you catch them alive and release them elsewhere (park, field, etc.). No injury or death = no crime.But in practice:
- Releasing house mice outdoors often just creates problems somewhere else.
- Many people consider that ineffective or even illegal (releasing pests can violate local health codes).
Bottom line for homeowners: Everyday mouse control with kill traps or poison would be criminalized. You’d be forced into live-trap-and-release (or calling expensive professionals). This is one of the reasons opponents call the measure extreme — it doesn’t just hit farms and hunters; it hits regular houses too.This matches the official text and how both sides are describing it. If the measure qualifies for the ballot and passes, this would take effect 30 days later.Want the direct PDF link to the full bill text, or clarification on glue traps / poison specifically? Or how this would interact with landlords / apartments? Just say the word.
