California moves to study possible grizzly bear reintroduction

California lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 1305, introduced by State Senator Laura Richardson, which would require the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop a roadmap assessing whether reintroducing grizzly bears is feasible and advisable. The bill has advanced despite opposition from Republican legislators, ranchers, hunting groups and some rural residents, and is now awaiting action in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Support for the proposal includes at least 40 Native American tribes, environmental organizations and animal‑welfare groups. A 2025 study commissioned by tribes, environmentalists and university researchers identified the Klamath Mountains, Trinity Alps, southern Sierra Nevada and parts of the Transverse ranges as potential habitats that could sustain between 424 and 1,713 grizzlies, with an initial release population of about 25 individuals. Proponents argue that restoring an apex predator could improve prey dynamics, soil health and wildfire resilience, while opponents stress possible impacts on agriculture and public safety.