Connecticut House Bill HB05358

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/18
• Refer: 3/1/18

Caption

An Act Authorizing Black Bear Hunting In Litchfield County.

Impact

Should the bill be enacted, it would amend existing statutes related to hunting, specifically those in sections 26-86a, 26-86b, and 26-86c of the general statutes. This would allow for the regulated taking of black bears while imposing a wide range of stipulations aimed at conservation and sustainability. The implementation of this act is anticipated to not only help in regulating the local black bear population but also to foster a greater understanding of wildlife management within Litchfield County.

Summary

House Bill 05358, titled 'An Act Authorizing Black Bear Hunting In Litchfield County', aims to permit regulated hunting of black bear in the specified region. This legislation seeks to manage the black bear population through controlled hunting, which is stipulated to occur under strict regulations set by the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection. Among the provisions included are bag limits, season restrictions, and eligibility criteria for prospective hunters, which ensures that hunting does not exceed 5% of the state's total black bear population in its initial year.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB 05358 revealed a spectrum of opinions. Supporters advocate for the bill as a necessary wildlife management strategy aimed at curbing potential overpopulation and associated conflicts between bears and human settlements. In contrast, critics express concern over ethical issues surrounding hunting and the potential ecological impacts. Hence, if passed, the bill might still prompt ongoing debates regarding wildlife preservation versus population control measures, reflecting broader societal views on hunting practices.