Connecticut House Bill HB05155

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Deliberate Feeding Of Black Bears And Authorizing A Limited Bear Hunting Season.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05155 will significantly impact state laws regarding wildlife management and hunting regulations. By prohibiting the intentional feeding of black bears, the bill aims to discourage behaviors that attract bears to human-populated areas, potentially reducing instances of bear-related incidents. Furthermore, the introduction of a limited hunting season will provide a regulatory framework for managing bear numbers in a controlled manner, ensuring that the population remains balanced with the ecosystem and safe for residents.

Summary

House Bill 05155 seeks to amend existing statutes by prohibiting the deliberate feeding of black bears within the state and authorizing a limited bear hunting season. The main objective of this bill is to manage the black bear population effectively while safeguarding the well-being of state residents. It addresses concerns related to the increasing interaction between humans and bears, aiming to mitigate potential safety risks and property damage caused by a growing bear population.

Contention

While the bill may have support from various stakeholders concerned with public safety and wildlife management, there are notable points of contention surrounding its implementation. Critics may express concerns over the ethics of bear hunting and the potential consequences of a hunting season on bear populations. Additionally, there may be debate regarding how effectively the prohibition on feeding bears can be enforced and the responsibilities of residents regarding wildlife interactions.