SF243 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Open season for wolves requirement

Related bill: HF782

AI Generated Summary

The bill SF No 243 proposes a law that would require the establishment of an open hunting season for wolves in Minnesota. This would only occur if wolves are not listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act. Once wolves are delisted, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, directed by the commissioner, would be able to set annual hunting seasons and specific regulations for hunting wolves. These regulations must consider public opinion and align with the objectives of the state's wolf management plan. Additionally, the commissioner is required to consult annually with both the Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to review data on wolf interactions that affect livestock, pets, and humans before setting the hunting regulations.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
January 15, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
January 15, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toEnvironment, Climate, and Legacy
February 19, 2025SenateFloorActionAuthor added

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "A requirement for the commissioner to prescribe an annual open season for wolves."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "Prior prohibition of an open season for wolves unless listed in the federal ESA."
      ],
      "summary": "This bill requires an open season for wolves and amends section 97B.645, subdivision 9.",
      "modified": [
        "Conditions under which the open season and any restrictions must be consistent with the wolf management plan."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "97B.645"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "References the wolf management plan as per section 97B.646.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "97B.646"
  }
]