SF541 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Feral swine causing damage taking authorization provision
Related bill: HF1298
AI Generated Summary
The bill SF No 541 proposes changes to how feral swine can be managed in Minnesota. It permits property owners or their agents to kill feral swine on their land if the animals are causing damage, without needing a special license. However, there are specific rules about how the animals can be killed (no artificial lights during closed season, no poison, certain rules about traps).
Additionally, the bill sets penalties for people who possess or release feral swine illegally — these individuals could face misdemeanor charges, be responsible for any damages caused, and for the costs incurred by the state in dealing with the released swine.
Anytime feral swine are killed under this new rule, the individual must notify a conservation officer or a wildlife division employee within 48 hours, but unlike other animals killed under similar circumstances, the feral swine do not need to be handed over to the state authorities.
Overall, this bill aims to control the population and impact of feral swine in Minnesota while holding people accountable for violations involving these animals.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 22, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| January 22, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Environment, Climate, and Legacy |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Clarifies that individuals must report the shooting of feral swine within 24 hours and surrender them to the commissioner."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill modifies existing regulations concerning the possession and hunting of feral swine under section 97A.56.",
"modified": [
"Specifies additional liabilities for individuals who violate possession or release regulations."
]
},
"citation": "97A.56"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Allows taking of feral swine causing damage on private land without a license and specifies notification procedures."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill addresses the taking of certain animals, including feral swine, on private land under section 97B.655.",
"modified": [
"Updates notification requirements for killing feral swine, requiring notice within 48 hours."
]
},
"citation": "97B.655"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill mentions trap tagging requirements as dictated in section 97B.928.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "97B.928"
}
]