H.473 is a bill introduced by Representative Austin of Colchester that mandates the Department of Fish and Wildlife to conduct a feasibility study regarding the reintroduction of the puma concolor, commonly known as the cougar or catamount, into Vermont. The study will explore various aspects of the reintroduction process, including suitable locations within the state, strategies for managing potential human-catamount conflicts, metrics for assessing the success of the reintroduction, an estimated timeline, and projected costs associated with the initiative.

The bill requires the Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife to present the findings of the feasibility study to both the House Committee on Environment and the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy by January 1, 2027. This initiative aims to evaluate the practicality and implications of bringing the catamount back to Vermont's ecosystem.