Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a controversial bill into law on Friday that allows residents to shoot bears if they perceive a threat, sparking debate and concern among wildlife advocates and others.
The new law, which goes into effect on July 1, permits individuals to use lethal force against bears if they believe there is an “imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury” to a person, pet, or substantial damage to a dwelling.
Elizabeth Fleming, senior Florida representative with Defenders of Wildlife, told Politico on Friday that the bill signing was “very unfortunate” and suggested that legal challenges may be forthcoming.
The bill’s sponsor, Florida state Representative Jason Shoaf, a Republican, faced some lighthearted criticism during the legislative process for his colorful language describing the need for the law.
This viral comment led to a humorous exchange in the Legislature, including a reference to the 2023 movie Cocaine Bear by Eskamani who playfully questioned whether Shoaf was aware that the film was not a documentary.
As the law takes effect next month, state wildlife officials will likely face the challenge of balancing public safety concerns with the need to protect Florida’s bear population.
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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a controversial bill into law on Friday that allows residents to shoot bears if they perceive a threat, sparking debate and concern among wildlife advocates and others.
The new law, which goes into effect on July 1, permits individuals to use lethal force against bears if they believe there is an “imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury” to a person, pet, or substantial damage to a dwelling.
Elizabeth Fleming, senior Florida representative with Defenders of Wildlife, told Politico on Friday that the bill signing was “very unfortunate” and suggested that legal challenges may be forthcoming.
The bill’s sponsor, Florida state Representative Jason Shoaf, a Republican, faced some lighthearted criticism during the legislative process for his colorful language describing the need for the law.
This viral comment led to a humorous exchange in the Legislature, including a reference to the 2023 movie Cocaine Bear by Eskamani who playfully questioned whether Shoaf was aware that the film was not a documentary.
As the law takes effect next month, state wildlife officials will likely face the challenge of balancing public safety concerns with the need to protect Florida’s bear population.
The original article contains 579 words, the summary contains 194 words. Saved 66%. I’m a bot and I’m open source!