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 new bear hunting license fee of $25. The bill also introduces a bear harvest permit lottery, with a nonrefundable application fee of $50, and allows for the auction of a single bear harvest permit. All funds generated from these activities will be dedicated to managing, conserving, restoring, and enhancing black bear populations in Louisiana.

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 also clarifies that the funds from the special prestige license plate sales, previously restricted to nongame purposes, will now support the black bear account. The bill aims to enhance the management and conservation efforts for black bears while providing a structured framework for hunting licenses and permits.

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)