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Bill

HB 5132

AN ACT AUTHORIZING SUNDAY HUNTING ON PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PROPERTY BY SHOTGUN OR RIFLE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Seth Bronko and 2 co-sponsors

HB 5132 permits Sunday hunting with shotguns and rifles on public and private Connecticut property, eliminating the current statewide Sunday hunting ban.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Environment
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Bill Summary · HB 5132

Legislative bill overview

HB 5132 would authorize hunting with shotguns and rifles on both public and private property in Connecticut on Sundays, a practice currently prohibited by state law. The bill eliminates the existing Sunday hunting ban, allowing hunters an additional day per week for hunting activities during established seasons.

Why is this important

Sunday hunting restrictions date back decades and reflect historical religious observance preferences. Removing this restriction would expand hunting opportunities, potentially increasing recreational hunting participation and wildlife management flexibility, while also raising questions about land use rights, public safety, and community preferences regarding weekend activities in residential areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Sunday hunting could increase firearm discharge in areas where residential populations are highest during weekends, raising injury and liability risks
  • Property rights and privacy: Allowing hunting on private property without explicit owner consent restrictions may conflict with homeowners' expectations of weekend peace and safety on their land
  • Wildlife management philosophy: Debate over whether additional hunting days are necessary for population control or represent unnecessary take, especially for species with stable populations
  • Community impact: Sunday is a peak day for outdoor recreation (hiking, family activities), potentially creating conflicts between different user groups and safety hazards
  • Urban-rural divide: The practical impact differs dramatically between rural areas where hunting is common and suburban/exurban regions where gun use generates more concern

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

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