HUNTING LICENSE LOTTERY

PRIORITY FOR VETERANS

House Bill 4095 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Robert L. Kosowski

Committee:  Natural Resources

Complete to 2-13-18

SUMMARY:

House Bill 4095 would amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by adding a section to allow that first preference be given to veterans for lottery hunting licenses.

The bill would mandate that if a license to take game is issued through a lottery, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) would have to give first priority to any veteran who submits an application in that lottery. The DNR could demand proof of veteran status for eligibility.

Under the bill, veteran would mean an individual who served in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard and who was discharged or released from service with an honorable or general discharge.

Proposed MCL 324.43536b

FISCAL IMPACT:

The fiscal impact of House Bill 4095 on the Department of Natural Resources is unknown. The department’s Retail Sales System is not currently programmed to give lottery priority to hunting license applications from veterans; the system would require adjustment to comply with an enacted HB 4095, and the extent of these reprogramming costs are unclear. The bill’s effect on departmental revenue is also unclear. Hunting license lottery applications generate $1.1 million in annual revenue according to the DNR. The bill does not make a residency distinction when determining lottery priority, though certain hunting license rates are based on applicant residency. The bill is unlikely to have an impact on local government revenues or costs.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   Emily S. Smith

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Austin Scott

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.