Michigan House Bill HB4029

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Refer: 1/28/25

Caption

Natural resources: hunting; posting of rules and regulations by a certain date; require. Amends secs. 40113a & 41103 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.40113a & 324.41103).

Impact

If passed, HB4029 would grant the commission exclusive authority to regulate the taking of game and sport fishing within the state. This means that the commission would be responsible for establishing hunting and fishing seasons, size limits, and creel limits, following principles of scientific management. The bill includes provisions that require public meetings and opportunities for input before issuing regulations, underscoring a commitment to transparency and community involvement in wildlife management decisions.

Summary

House Bill 4029 aims to amend certain provisions under the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, specifically sections related to the management of fish and wildlife populations in Michigan. The bill reinforces the importance of sound scientific management of natural resources, particularly aiming to balance wildlife conservation with hunting and fishing practices. The legislation highlights the significance of bear management, emphasizing the need to minimize human-wildlife encounters while ensuring that population levels are kept in check to prevent threats to humans, livestock, and pets.

Contention

Notably, HB4029 reflects a broader ongoing discussion about the balance between conservation efforts and recreational hunting. There may be concerns from wildlife advocates who fear that increased hunting permissions could lead to population declines for certain species. Conversely, proponents of the bill argue that regulated hunting is vital for economic reasons and for maintaining sustainable wildlife populations. Thus, the bill is likely to spark debates on the efficacy of state-level wildlife management and the role of community input in shaping these laws. Overall, this bill illustrates the continuing complexities of managing natural resources effectively amid competing interests.