Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has stirred controversy by signing legislation that allows people to kill black bears on their property, while vetoing a bill that targets slow drivers in the left lane.
The new law, H.B. 87, provides a stand-your-ground defense for Florida residents to shoot and kill black bears on their property in defense of themselves and their property. Supporters argue that Floridians have a right to protect themselves, while opponents fear that the law could lead to increased deaths of the once-threatened animals.
Opponents, including the group Bear Warriors, have vowed to take legal action against the law, with plans to file a lawsuit to overturn it. They argue that the law not only endangers the future of Florida black bears but also poses a risk to children who could be harmed by stray bullets meant for bears.
On the other hand, DeSantis vetoed H.B. 317, which aimed to prohibit drivers from cruising in the left lanes of highways with at least two lanes and speed limits of at least 65 mph. The bill would have fined violators up to $158 for an offense, but the governor deemed the language too broad and potentially leading to increased congestion in urban areas.
The governor signed a total of 14 bills from this year’s legislative session and vetoed three, showcasing his commitment to carefully considering each piece of legislation. The new law allowing the killing of black bears on private property is set to take effect on July 1, sparking debate and concern among Florida residents.
