House declines bill to authorize a black‑bear draw after extended debate
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Summary
Lawmakers debated a bill to authorize limited black‑bear hunting via a lottery system, with sponsors citing conservation and data collection; opponents raised population and ethical concerns and the bill failed on the floor.
A lengthy floor debate over a proposed black‑bear draw ended with the House voting against the measure.
The wildlife committee chairman told members Mississippi now estimates "just less than 1,000" black bears and proposed giving the commission authority to establish a data‑driven draw, with early years likely limited to a governor's or small lottery. "We have realized the conservation dream come true... we want to create a draw," the sponsor said, urging a regional, data-driven approach.
Members questioned population estimates, whether tags should be limited to residents in early years, and whether hunters or the commission would control tag allocation. Several members noted the state had previously listed the bear as endangered and that any harvest should be carefully phased.
After extended discussion on biology, tagging strategy and prudent pacing, the measure failed on a roll call.
