Bill > HF1333

This bill establishes a comprehensive new system for issuing moose hunting licenses in Minnesota, requiring the state to issue at least four moose licenses annually through two distinct methods: a lottery system and a public auction. The lottery will be open to residents who have not received a moose license within the past ten years, with a $25 application fee, while the auction will be open to both residents and nonresidents, with successful bidders paying a $500 license fee. The bill creates a new Moose Research Account within the game and fish fund, which will collect revenue from license fees and auction proceeds to support scientific research on moose populations, including studying moose mortality, calf survival, disease prevalence, and habitat relationships. Additionally, the bill mandates that the commissioner of natural resources publicly announce the number of licenses, season dates, areas, and conditions for moose hunting at least 60 days before any application deadline, providing transparency in the licensing process. This legislation aims to provide structured access to moose hunting while simultaneously supporting ongoing research to better understand and manage moose populations in Minnesota.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1333&ssn=0&y=2025