HF649 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Annual open season for wolves required.
Related bill: SF632
AI Generated Summary
The bill H.F. No. 649, proposed by Burkel and Nelson, aims to establish an annual hunting season for wolves in Minnesota, but only if wolves are not listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. Once wolves are delisted, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be responsible for setting specific details about the hunting season. These details will include when hunting is allowed and what restrictions hunters must follow. The DNR will work in consultation with the Commissioner of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to assess the impact of wolves on livestock, pets, and human safety. Public feedback will also be considered in setting these regulations. The guidelines for the hunting season must align with the objectives outlined in the state's wolf management plan.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| February 12, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy |
| February 19, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Author added | |
| February 23, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Author added |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"A new provision requiring consultation with the commissioner of agriculture and the USDA before determining season restrictions."
],
"removed": [
"The prohibition on prescribing an open season for wolves before delisting under the Endangered Species Act."
],
"summary": "This bill modifies the provisions for establishing an open season for wolves under section 97B.645.",
"modified": [
"The requirement to provide public comment opportunity for proposed wolf open seasons."
]
},
"citation": "97B.645"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "References the requirement that season restrictions must align with goals in the wolf management plan under section 97B.646.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "97B.646"
}
]