Florida Governor Signs Bear Shooting Law, Vetoes Left Lane Driving Bill

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has approved a controversial measure allowing residents to shoot black bears on their property under self-defense claims, while simultaneously rejecting a bill targeting slow drivers in the left lane.

DeSantis, announcing his decision on Friday, signed a total of 14 bills into law from this year's legislative session, while vetoing three others.

House Bill 87, now signed into law as H.B. 87, grants Florida residents a stand-your-ground defense to shoot and kill black bears on their property if they perceive a threat to themselves or their property. The legislation stipulates that individuals who kill a bear must promptly notify the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission within 24 hours, and are prohibited from keeping or selling the bear carcass. Notably, the law does not extend legal immunity to those who attract bears onto their property intentionally.

Proponents argue that the law upholds citizens' rights to protect themselves and their homes from potential threats posed by bears. Conversely, opponents express concerns that the legislation could lead to an increase in bear fatalities, jeopardizing the recovery of the once-endangered species.

Katrina Shadix, speaking on behalf of the advocacy group Bear Warriors, voiced strong opposition: "We will file a lawsuit to get that bill overturned. This will be protecting the future of Florida black bears, the survival of a species we love so much. And, also going to save the lives of our children who are at risk of being shot by a stray bullet meant for a bear."

The new law is slated to go into effect on July 1, prompting further debate and potential legal challenges.

In a separate decision, Governor DeSantis vetoed House Bill 317, which aimed to restrict drivers from lingering in the left lanes of highways with at least two lanes and speed limits of 65 mph or more. The proposed legislation included fines of up to $158 for violations but offered exemptions for passing other vehicles, preparing to exit, making left turns, or following traffic-control devices.

In his veto letter, DeSantis cited concerns over the broad language of the bill, cautioning that it could result in unjust fines and increased traffic congestion in urban areas as drivers might avoid using the left lane altogether to evade potential penalties.

Why This Matters: The signing of H.B. 87 marks a significant shift in wildlife management policy in Florida, raising ethical and ecological concerns. DeSantis' veto of H.B. 317 highlights ongoing debates about traffic laws and enforcement in the state.

Key Takeaways:

• Florida residents can now legally shoot black bears on their property under perceived threat.
• Notification to authorities within 24 hours of a bear shooting is mandatory under the new law.
• Governor DeSantis vetoed a bill targeting slow drivers in the left lane due to concerns over its broad language and potential traffic implications.
• Advocacy groups may pursue legal action against the bear shooting law, citing risks to bear populations and public safety.
• Both decisions reflect ongoing tensions between personal rights, wildlife conservation, and traffic management in Florida.