DNR GIFT CERTIFICATES
Senate Bill 338 (Substitute H-3)
Sponsor: Sen. Michelle A. McManus
House Committee: Tourism, Outdoor Recreation, and Natural Resources
Senate Committee: Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs
Complete to 9-23-08
A SUMMARY OF SENATE BILL 338 AS REPORTED FROM HOUSE COMMITTEE 2-12-08
For about two years, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has offered for sale $25 gift certificates that can be applied to state park, recreation area, or harbor fees. The bill would amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (MCL 352.513) to require the DNR to offer one or more gift certificates redeemable for at least any of the following:
· Hunting and fishing license fees.
· State park motor vehicle permit and camping fees.
· Mooring fees.
· Off-road vehicle license fees.
· Snowmobile license fees.
The House Tourism Committee amended the bill to require the program's implementation by October 1, 2008 (instead of October 1, 2007).
This bill would have an indeterminate fiscal impact on the Department of Natural Resources. There may be an initial cost related to the manufacture of gift cards or gift certificates, but it is likely that the costs related to the distribution and sale of these items would be covered by department charges to gift card purchasers. There would be no fiscal impact on local governmental units.
POSITIONS:
The DNR supports the bill so long as the implementation date is changed to March 1, 2009 to coincide with the DNR's license year. (Michigan hunting and fishing licenses are valid from March 1 through March 31 of the following year for the appropriate seasons.) (9-23-08)
Legislative Analyst: Shannan Kane
Fiscal Analyst: Kirk Lindquist
■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.