Bill > HF2501

This bill aims to prohibit the use of lead ammunition and lead fishing tackle across various contexts in Minnesota, with comprehensive provisions affecting hunting, fishing, shooting sports, and educational programs. Specifically, the bill requires 4H extension programs, shooting ranges, and shooting sports facilities to use only nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle, and mandates educational components about the toxic effects of lead. The legislation prohibits using lead ammunition when hunting in state parks, scientific natural areas, and eventually statewide, with civil penalties ranging from $500 to $5,000 for violations. To ease the transition, the bill establishes programs to provide hunters with nontoxic ammunition vouchers and create an ammunition buy-back initiative. For fishing, the bill bans the sale, manufacture, and use of small lead sinkers and jigs (weighing one ounce or less or measuring 2.5 inches or less). The Minnesota State High School League must also adopt rules requiring nontoxic ammunition in shooting sports events. Additionally, the bill includes appropriations for implementing these changes, such as funding ammunition voucher programs and conducting lead-level diagnostic tests for young shooting sports participants and testing lead levels near shooting facilities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2501&ssn=0&y=2025