CT SB00146

Expands DEEP Commissioner's authority to issue wildlife taking permits to include wildlife that caused crop damage during the preceding growing season, not just wildlife currently threatening crops, livestock, or apiaries

Adds livestock protection as a qualifying reason for wildlife taking permits, requiring property owners to first utilize reasonable nonlethal efforts such as electric fencing, animal guardians, or fortified enclosed structures

Authorizes persons to use deadly physical force to kill a bear that is injuring or killing their livestock, in addition to existing protections for pets, provided the livestock is controlled in accordance with applicable laws

Requires DEEP investigation and verification before issuing permits, with permits specifying allowable means, methods, and times for the take

Both provisions take effect upon passage and do not authorize taking of any federally protected species