New Mexico Trappers Association, et al. v. Torrez, et al.
June 8, 2026·1:23-CV-00444-MV-SCY·Panel Decision·Judge Kelly·By Aisha Johnson
The Tenth Circuit dismissed the New Mexico Trappers Association's claims for lack of standing. The court found the alleged injuries were not redressable or ripe for review.
The New Mexico Trappers Association challenged the New Mexico Wildlife Conservation and Public Safety Act, claiming it violated constitutional rights by allowing exceptions for Native American religious practices.
The court’s reasoning
The court found that the Trappers’ alleged injuries were not redressable because even if the exception was struck down, the general prohibition on trapping would remain. Additionally, the psychological and stigmatic injuries were not ripe for review as no rules had been promulgated under the exception.
What it means going forward
The decision leaves the New Mexico Wildlife Conservation and Public Safety Act intact, with its prohibition on trapping remaining in effect.
