In yet another attempt to stop the legal and regulated black bear hunting season while undermining science-based wildlife management, anti-hunting legislators have proposed Assembly Bill 6055. If passed, this bill would significantly alter the make-up of the New Jersey Fish and Game Council. This proposed bill would empower animal extremists to block decisions crucial for responsible wildlife management, reduce public safety through increased human bear contact, and simultaneously reduce opportunities for hunters in New Jersey.

Assembly Bill 6055 proposes to significantly change the 11-member New Jersey Fish and Game Council, replacing 3 of the 6 recommendations from New Jersey sportsmen’s clubs with individuals recommended by animal welfare organizations. Organizations of this type traditionally stand in opposition to legalized and regulated hunting. 

The New Jersey Fish and Game Council currently consists of 3 members who are farmers, one member knowledgeable in land-use management and conservation practices, one member who is the chair of the Endangered and Non-game Species Advisory Committee, and 6 members who are recommended by a coalition of New Jersey-based sportsmen’s organizations.

This proposal is blatant anti-hunting legislation, and flies in the face of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. It also stands to damage the decades of proven conservation policy from the Fish and Game Council and the Division of Fish and Wildlife. It is designed to stack the Council with individuals who want to stop legalized hunting, thereby endangering the public by allowing game populations to increase unchecked. It will also deplete conservation funding for the Division of Fish and Wildlife.

We are requesting all New Jersey Sportsmen and women to contact your elected officials now and let them know that you oppose Assembly Bill 6055 and that you support the New Jersey Fish and Game Council.