FL H1587

Permits use of lethal force to take a bear without a permit if a person feels threatened and believes the force is necessary to protect themselves on their private property.

Exemption does not apply if a person intentionally lures a bear with food or attractants for illegal purposes, including training dogs to hunt bears, or intentionally provokes a bear to incite an attack.

Person who lawfully takes a bear is not subject to administrative, civil, or criminal penalties and must notify the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission within 24 hours.

Prohibits possession, sale, or disposal of taken bears or their parts; the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission must dispose of all bears taken under this section.

Effective date is July 1, 2023.