New Bill Aims to Manage California’s Surging Black Bear Population

California’s black bear population has more than doubled in the past decade, reaching an estimated 60,000 to 80,000, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). With increasing human-wildlife conflicts, including the state’s first confirmed fatal black bear attack in Downieville in 2024, lawmakers are looking for new ways to address the issue.

Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick (R-Alturas) has introduced Assembly Bill 1038, a non-lethal wildlife management proposal aimed at reducing bear encounters in suburban and urban areas. The bill would reintroduce a “pursuit season”, allowing trained hounds to chase and haze bears without harming them.

“Bears are out of control in California, while rural communities live in fear of their lives and livelihoods,” Hadwick said. “This bill will keep bears wild and our communities safe.”

The idea behind hazing bears is to reintroduce a natural fear response, keeping them away from populated areas and reducing conflicts with humans. If passed, the bill would also allow the Fish and Game Commission to consider a regulated bear hunting season using dogs as a future management tool.

As bear encounters continue to rise, AB 1038 presents a proactive and responsible approach to keeping both wildlife and communities safe. The bill is set to be reviewed in the state Assembly in the coming weeks.