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SB 54

AN ACT AUTHORIZING BLACK BEAR HUNTING IN LITCHFIELD COUNTY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Berthel

SB 54 authorizes black bear hunting in Litchfield County, Connecticut to manage growing populations and reduce human-wildlife conflicts through regulated lethal control.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Environment
#bears #hunting #litchfieldcounty
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Bill Summary · SB 54

Legislative bill overview

SB 54 would authorize black bear hunting in Litchfield County, Connecticut, a region in the northwestern part of the state. This represents a change in current hunting regulations, as black bear hunting is not currently permitted in this county. The bill has been referred to the Joint Committee on Environment for review and consideration.

Why is this important

Black bear populations in Connecticut have grown significantly over the past two decades, leading to increased human-wildlife conflicts including property damage, garbage raids, and occasional threatening encounters. Authorizing hunting in Litchfield County could provide a wildlife management tool to help control population growth and reduce bear-human interactions in that region. The decision reflects broader debates about balancing wildlife conservation with public safety and property protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Wildlife population management philosophy: Opponents may argue lethal control is unnecessary when non-lethal deterrents (bear-proof containers, fencing, property management) could reduce conflicts, while proponents contend hunting is an efficient population management strategy
  • Safety and effectiveness concerns: Critics question whether regulated hunting in populated areas is safe and whether it effectively reduces conflicts, versus supporters who cite successful bear management programs in other northeastern states
  • Animal welfare and ethical considerations: Animal rights advocates oppose hunting bears, while hunters and wildlife managers argue regulated hunting is humane and necessary for ecological balance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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