AN ACT CONCERNING THE REGULATION AND CONTROL OF THE BLACK BEAR POPULATION IN THE STATE.

HB 5315 requires Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to study the state's black bear population annually, ban unintentional feeding of bears, educate the public on preventing human-bear conflicts, and establish regional hunting seasons to maintain bear numbers within natural limits. The bill directly affects residents (through feeding restrictions and public education) and hunters (via regulated hunting seasons). Key provisions include mandatory population studies, a public feeding prohibition, and region-specific hunting seasons to balance bear populations with ecological and community safety. The goal is to maintain a healthy bear population while minimizing conflicts with humans.