Washington Voters Overwhelmingly Approve New State Laws to Protect Endangered Species Washington State leads the nation, first state to crack down on illegal wildlife trafficking by a vote of the peopleBy a nearly 3:1 margin, voters lead the nation in adopting broad protections for 10 key species facing extinction, including elephantsElection result is huge momentum boost for Oregon initiative, legislation in other states

SEATTLE, Nov. 4, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Washington residents have spoken loud and clear, overwhelmingly approving statewide Initiative 1401 with 71% of the vote tonight. Washington is now the first state in the country to successfully ask voters to create new penalties under state law for those caught trafficking in products made from key endangered species. "We are thrilled with the level of support tonight from voters. I-1401 is rolling up huge margins all across the state," said Yes on I-1401 campaign manager Stephanie Ervin. "Tonight's election returns are a testament to the incredible effort over the past months by our deep coalition of conservation leaders, our dedicated volunteers...