Romanian Parliament re-adopts brown bear management law

The Romanian Chamber of Deputies has re-adopted legislation regarding the management of the brown bear population. Following a request for re-examination by the President, the Parliament maintained the previously established levels for 2026 and 2027.

Under the new law, the annual quota for bear management is capped at 969 specimens. This includes 859 for prevention and 110 for intervention. These figures represent a significant increase from previous years; for instance, in 2023, the maximum was 220 specimens, and in 2024 and 2025, it was set at 481.

The legislation introduces several regulatory changes, including the definition of a ‘habituated bear,’ simplified procedures for rapid interventions, protocols for relocating cubs, and penalties for feeding bears. From 2028 onwards, management levels are intended to be set annually based on scientific data. The law will now be sent back to the President for promulgation.