Polish Senate debates controversial wildlife damage compensation bill

The Polish Senate is reviewing a proposed amendment to the Nature Conservation Act intended to provide compensation to farmers and fishers for damages caused by protected species, including wolves, bison, bears, beavers, and protected birds.

However, the Senate's Legislative Bureau has warned that the current draft may violate the Constitution. The legal concern stems from an expansion of the list of protected species for which the state assumes responsibility, while simultaneously narrowing the scope of eligible property types. This restriction could infringe upon principles of equality and property protection.

Discrepancies have also emerged regarding the financial impact of the bill. While the project estimates costs at 70 million PLN, representatives from the fishing sector claim annual damages reach 200 million PLN. Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection (RDOŚ) offices are expected to take over damage assessments starting in 2028.