Sponsored by:
Senator VIN GOPAL
District 11 (Monmouth)
Senator LORETTA WEINBERG
District 37 (Bergen)
Co-Sponsored by:
Senator Greenstein
SYNOPSIS
Requires annual update of comprehensive policy for managing black bear.
CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT
As introduced.
An Act concerning the comprehensive policy for managing black bear and amending P.L.1948, c.448.
Be It Enacted by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:
1. Section 30 of P.L.1948, c.448 (C.13:1B-28) is amended to read as follows:
30. In addition to its powers and duties otherwise hereinafter provided, the Fish and Game Council shall, subject to the approval of the commissioner, formulate comprehensive policies for the protection and propagation of fish, birds, and game animals and for the propagation and distribution of food fish and for the keeping up of the supply thereof in the waters of the State.
The council shall update the comprehensive policy for the management of black bear on an annual basis.
The council shall also:
a. Consult with and advise the commissioner and director of the Division of Fish and [Game] Wildlife with respect to the work of such division.
b. Study the activities of the Division of Fish and [Game] Wildlife and hold hearings with respect thereto as it may deem necessary or desirable.
c. Report to the Governor and the Legislature annually, and at such other times as it may deem in the public interest, with respect to its findings and conclusions.
(cf: P.L.1948, c.448, s.30)
2. This act shall take effect immediately.
STATEMENT
This bill would require the Fish and Game Council to update the comprehensive policy for the management of black bear on an annual basis. The updated policy would be subject to the approval of the Commissioner of Environmental Protection.