CT HB07051

Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection must develop a black bear management plan with the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection to ensure public safety, protect property, and maintain a sustainable bear population

Management plan must include population assessments by region, human-bear conflict reduction recommendations, public education guidelines, nonlethal deterrence strategies, and waste management practices to reduce attractants

Plan must establish protocols for the public and government entities to manage bears posing imminent threats to public safety or property, with coordination among municipalities and law enforcement

Commissioner must submit the plan to the General Assembly's public safety and environment committees by July 1, 2026, with any revisions due within 30 days of development

If the Commissioner determines the black bear population threatens public safety, they may request the Governor issue an executive order authorizing population control measures