California State Senator Scott Wiener has introduced Senate Bill 252, a proposal that seeks to enact a complete ban on bear hunting within the state’s borders. This legislation marks the latest in a series of efforts to restrict or eliminate the hunting of various wildlife species in California. Previous actions include the prohibition of mountain lion hunting, restrictions on bobcat trapping, and the banning of hound hunting for bears.
Critics of SB 252 argue that the proposed ban is not based on sound scientific evidence or wildlife management data. Instead, they contend that the legislation is driven by emotional appeals rather than factual considerations. Opponents draw parallels to the ban on mountain lion hunting, suggesting that a similar prohibition on bear hunting could paradoxically lead to an increase in bear mortality due to factors such as human-wildlife conflict and a lack of effective population management tools. They emphasize the importance of regulated hunting as a means of maintaining healthy wildlife populations and minimizing conflicts.