Florida's bear killing bill (HB 87) is en route to Governor DeSantis and requires immediate action. We strongly encourage individuals to contact the Governor's office by both phone and email:

Phone: (850) 717-9337
Email: GovernorRon.Desantis@eog.myflorida.com

HB 87 purportedly seeks to safeguard citizens by allowing them to protect themselves and their loved ones against bears, yet its actual ramifications are deeply concerning. Ostensibly framed as augmenting self-defense rights against Florida black bears, the bill creates confusion regarding existing legal protections (Common Law Defense of Necessity). It sanctions the year-round killing of Florida black bears devoid of adequate safeguards against over-killing.

During the bill's progression, Representative Shoaf's assertions on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) conducting investigations were misleading. Notably absent from the bill is any provision for criminal repercussions for killing bears, rendering investigations pointless. Moreover, loopholes within the bill, such as the ambiguous definition of "luring and provoking a bear," facilitate indiscriminate bear killings. Individuals can lure bears onto their property with trash and other attractants and that will not be considered “intentionally” luring or provoking a bear. 

HB 87's origins are rooted in a select few individuals' dissatisfaction with the FWC's refusal to endorse a bear hunting season. Regrettably, the bill neglects constructive approaches, such as bear-wise education, non-lethal deterrents, and community initiatives for bear-resistant trash containers. It should have bolstered penalties for negligent waste management rather than facilitating the unregulated killing of bears. Hunting/killing bears does not reduce bear-human conflicts.

By signing HB 87 into law, Governor DeSantis risks legitimizing unfettered bear killings under the guise of self-defense. This legislative endeavor undermines public sentiment, challenges the FWC's authority, and demonizes a species that has never killed anyone in the State of Florida.

We implore all concerned citizens to advocate against HB 87's passage. Your proactive engagement is pivotal in safeguarding the future of Florida's black bears. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to protecting one of our state's most iconic species.