Minnesota House Bill HF2242

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/23
• Refer: 2/27/23

Caption

New registrations for farmed white-tailed deer prohibited, voluntary farmed white-tailed deer buyout program established, and money appropriated.

Impact

The legislation significantly modifies existing animal health regulations by amending Minnesota Statutes to restrict the possession of live Cervidae. This bill removes the ability for individuals to seek new registrations for farmed white-tailed deer while still allowing transfers among family members. Additionally, a one-time appropriated fund from the general revenue will be allocated to facilitate buyout payments to owners wishing to exit the business. This approach is seen as both a public health measure and an agricultural policy aimed at improving overall wildlife management.

Summary

House File 2242 addresses the management of farmed white-tailed deer in Minnesota by prohibiting new registrations for these animals and establishing a voluntary buyout program for their current owners. With the rising concerns regarding the health of deer populations and disease transmission, particularly chronic wasting disease, this legislation aims to mitigate risks associated with farmed deer. The bill stipulates that starting from July 1, 2023, the state will no longer approve new registrations, thereby halting the expansion of this sector and allowing the state to focus on existing herds and their management.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the implications for current deer farmers who may perceive the buyout program as inadequate or poorly managed, raising concerns about financial compensation and the economic future of their operations. Some stakeholders argue that while the buyout presents an exit strategy, it does not address the long-term impacts on local agricultural economies dependent on deer farming. Moreover, there are discussions about whether the bill effectively balances animal health concerns against the rights of existing farmers, which has stirred a debate among various interest groups within the agriculture sector.