Bill > SF2524

This bill eliminates the existing "shotgun zone" for deer hunting in Minnesota, which previously restricted the types of firearms that could be used in a specific geographic area during regular firearms deer season. Currently, only certain firearms like shotguns, muzzle-loading long guns, and specific handguns were permitted in the shotgun zone, which covered a defined region in central Minnesota. The bill will now allow all legal firearms to be used statewide during regular firearms deer season, effectively removing the geographic restrictions on firearm types. Additionally, the bill requires the commissioner of natural resources to submit a report by December 1, 2028, evaluating the impact of eliminating the shotgun zone on deer hunting and deer populations, and potentially recommending further legislative or policy changes. The bill will formally repeal Minnesota Statutes section 97B.318, which previously defined the shotgun use area and firearm restrictions, thereby creating a uniform statewide approach to deer hunting firearm regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2524&ssn=0&y=2025