CT SB00522

Authorizes hunting of black bears in Connecticut beginning October 1, 2017, expanding existing deer hunting regulations to include black bear hunting with bow and arrow, muzzleloader, and shotgun subject to permit requirements.

Limits initial black bear harvest to no more than 5% of the total state black bear population in the first year, restricting hunting to rural areas where documented human-bear interactions present public safety risks.

Requires hunters to obtain a black bear permit (in addition to a hunting license) at a cost of $19 for residents and $68 for nonresidents, with the same fee structure and exemptions as deer permits.

Mandates submission of a report to the joint standing committee on the environment within one year of the beginning of black bear hunting, including data on bears taken, licenses issued, and recommendations for modifications to the program.

Allows hunting of black bears with bow and arrow on private property on Sundays in overpopulated deer and black bear management zones, subject to written property owner permission and wildlife management guidelines.