REQUIREMENTS FOR THE TAKING OF DEER

DURING YOUTH HUNT WEEKEND

House Bill 5233 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Curtis S. VanderWall

Committee:  Natural Resources

Complete to 10-2-18

SUMMARY:

House Bill 5233 would amend Part 435 (Hunting and Fishing Licensing) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to establish criteria and requirements for the taking of deer by a minor child during the Youth Hunt Weekend. (The “Youth Hunt Weekend” is part of the Liberty Hunt established under section 3.101e of the Natural Resources Commission’s Wildlife Conservation Order.[1] The Liberty Hunt is a two-day hunt starting the Saturday following September 15.)

Under the bill, a minor child hunting during the Youth Hunt Weekend would have to purchase a youth antlerless deer license under the proposed new section. Only a minor child could purchase a youth antlerless deer license, which would cost $1 and would be valid for taking an antlerless deer only during the Youth Hunt Weekend.

The bill would also require that the minor child must take an antlerless deer before he or she takes an antlered deer during that weekend.

Proposed MCL 324.43537a

FISCAL IMPACT:

House Bill 5233 would increase revenue for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by establishing a new hunting license. The amount of revenue generated by this new youth antlerless deer license is unclear at present. The bill defines a relatively narrow scope for the license (minor children only, Youth Hunt Weekend specifically, antlerless deer exclusively) and a relatively low fee at $1. The sale of all hunting and fishing licenses generated approximately $62.1 million in FY 2016-17. This revenue was used to support wildlife and fishery programs, DNR law enforcement, and departmental administration in accordance with statute.

                                                                                        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.

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