Minnesota Senate Bill SF107

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/16/25

Caption

Shotgun zone for taking deer elimination and firearm and ammunition type used for taking deer regulated by the county provision

Impact

The bill specifically impacts Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.031, by adding a new subdivision that empowers county boards to adopt ordinances for limiting firearms and ammunition types suitable for deer hunting. These ordinances would require public notice and a hearing before enactment and would be valid for one year, after which new ordinances could be established under similar conditions. The repeal of section 97B.318 also aligns with this shift in regulatory authority, suggesting a broader move towards local control in legislative processes.

Summary

Senate File 107 (SF107) aims to amend the existing regulations surrounding deer hunting in Minnesota by eliminating the shotgun zone requirement. This change allows counties to create their own regulations regarding the types of firearms and ammunition that may be used for hunting deer within their jurisdictions. Previously, state law limited deer hunting in specific zones to shotguns with single-slug ammunition, but this bill gives more control to local governments, enabling them to respond to unique community needs relating to wildlife management.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SF107 revolve around the implications of localizing firearm regulations for hunting. Supporters of the bill argue that it respects local governance and allows communities to tailor hunting laws to better fit their needs, possibly considering factors such as public safety and wildlife populations. However, opponents express concerns that a patchwork of local regulations could create confusion and complicate compliance for hunters. Furthermore, there may be worries about the inconsistency and potential conflicts between differing county laws, which could affect hunter access and conservation efforts.