The bill proposed in the Minnesota House of Representatives modifies existing laws and regulations related to trapping. Here's a simple breakdown:

1. Start of Trapping Seasons: The bill specifies that trapping seasons for fur-bearing animals start at sunrise on the opening day set by the commissioner’s rules.

2. Tending Traps:

   • Time Restrictions: Traps cannot be checked (tended to) between 10 PM and 5 AM. However, during permissible hours (5 AM to 10 PM), a person can use a portable artificial light to check traps on foot.
   • Firearm Restrictions: While using a light to tend traps, a person is only allowed to carry a handgun or a rifle that uses .17 or .22 caliber rimfire cartridges, including .22 magnum.
   • Checking Frequency:
     • Body-gripping traps: These types of traps need to be checked at least once every three days.
     • Snares: Snares that cannot drown an animal also need to be checked every three days, and any trapped animal must be removed.

3. Setting Traps Near Water:

   • Generally, setting traps within 50 feet of any water body is prohibited within 30 days before the open season for mink and muskrat, unless a special permit is obtained.
   • However, foot-encapsulating traps (those with enclosed mechanisms accessible only through a small opening) can be set near water without a permit during the same period.

4. Repeal of Existing Rules: The bill repeals specific rules regarding the use of snares, specifically the requirement that snares incapable of drowning an animal must be checked daily.

This legislation aims to update and clarify the regulations surrounding the trapping of wild animals, focusing on the times, methods, and locations permissible for setting traps, as well as the frequency for checking them.