Connecticut Senate Bill SB00137

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/21
• Refer: 1/13/21

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Feeding Of Black Bears, Establishing A Wildlife Advisory Committee And Authorizing Certain Hazing Techniques In Municipalities With A Significant Number Of Black Bear Sightings.

Impact

The implications of SB00137 on state laws are significant, especially concerning wildlife management and public safety policies. It establishes a framework for municipalities with a rising number of black bear sightings to implement preventative measures against potential bear-human interactions. The bill's emphasis on non-lethal hazing techniques—specifically allowing animal control officers to utilize nonprojectile devices—provides a means to deter bears without causing harm, reflecting a shift towards more humane wildlife management practices. This is particularly relevant in regions where bear populations have been increasing due to environmental changes and urban encroachment.

Summary

SB00137 aims to address growing concerns related to black bear sightings and safety in communities across the state. The bill prohibits the feeding of black bears, which is believed to contribute to increased bear encounters with humans. By restricting the availability of food sources, the bill intends to minimize bear presence in populated areas, thus enhancing public safety and reducing potential conflicts between humans and bears. Moreover, the bill requires the establishment of a Wildlife Advisory Committee, which will be tasked with developing strategies to manage bear populations effectively and assess further necessary regulations.

Contention

While SB00137 garnered support for its intention to enhance public safety and create community-tailored wildlife management, it may also encounter opposition from wildlife advocates concerned about the bill's feeding prohibition. Critics might argue that prohibiting food sources could unintentionally lead to hunger-related issues for the bears or fail to address the underlying causes of bear incursions. There is also concern that reliance on hazing techniques may not be sufficient for managing bear populations effectively, thus challenging the balance between wildlife conservation and public safety.