Connecticut House Bill HB05469

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/18
• Refer: 3/7/18

Caption

An Act Concerning Bear Hunting.

Impact

This legislation signifies a stricter stance on wildlife conservation, particularly concerning bear populations which have been of concern in various states. By enhancing penalties, the bill aims to deter illegal bear hunting and promote responsible hunting practices. The implication is clearly directed towards both preserving bear populations and ensuring that hunters comply with legal guidelines designed to safeguard wildlife resources.

Summary

House Bill 5469, titled 'An Act Concerning Bear Hunting', proposes substantial increases in penalties for illegal bear hunting in Connecticut. Specifically, the bill aims to amend existing laws surrounding the taking of bear, detailing the fines and associated penalties for first, second, and subsequent offenses. For a first offense, offenders could face a fine of up to $750, along with the possibility of imprisonment for up to 30 days. Repeat offenders would face progressively harsher fines, with a maximum fine of $2,000 and possible imprisonment for a year after multiple violations.

Contention

The main points of contention around HB 5469 revolve around the balance between wildlife protection and hunters' rights. Some argue that increasing penalties may unfairly target responsible hunters who may make inadvertent mistakes, while conservationists argue that stricter regulations are necessary to protect increasingly vulnerable bear populations. The bill aims to address these concerns by reinforcing legal frameworks that ensure a more sustainable approach to wildlife management.