This bill amends and reenacts several sections of Louisiana law related to bear hunting and the management of the black bear population. Key provisions include the establishment of a black bear account within the Conservation Fund, which will receive revenues from a special prestige license plate fee and bear hunting license sales. The bill also introduces a requirement for hunters to obtain a black bear hunting license in addition to a basic hunting license, and it sets the fee for this license at $25 per year. Furthermore, it allows the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to create a lottery for bear harvest permits, with a nonrefundable application fee of $50, and permits may also be auctioned off.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding the feeding of wild bears, permitting licensed hunters with a bear harvest permit to bait bears legally. It emphasizes that all funds generated from lottery applications and auction proceeds will be dedicated to the black bear account for the purposes of managing, conserving, restoring, and enhancing the black bear population in Louisiana. The bill aims to enhance the management of black bears while providing a structured approach to bear hunting and conservation efforts in the state.

Statutes affected:
HB684 Original: 47:45(C)(1), 56:10(B)(9)
HB684 Engrossed: 47:45(C)(1), 56:10(B)(9)
HB684 Enrolled: 47:45(C)(1), 56:10(B)(9)
HB684 Act : 47:45(C)(1), 56:10(B)(9)