PARTICIPATION HUNTING LICENSE H.B. 5331 (H-2):
COMMITTEE SUMMARY
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House Bill 5331 (Substitute H-2 as passed by the House)
Sponsor: Representative Howard Walker
House Committee: Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources
Senate Committee: Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Recreation
Date Completed: 12-1-08
CONTENT
The bill would amend Part 435 (Hunting and Fishing Licensing) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to provide that a person going on a bobcat or bear hunt with a licensed hunter would not have to possess a license if he or she did not carry a firearm, bow, or crossbow and did not own or possess dogs used to chase or locate a bobcat or bear during the hunt.
Part 435 prohibits a person from hunting small game or bear, or trapping or hunting fur-bearing animals, unless he or she possesses the appropriate license. If authorized, a resident possessing a small game license may take specified fur-bearing animals by means other than trapping during the open season for hunting them.
MCL 324.43523 et al. Legislative Analyst: Julie Cassidy
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would result in a small and indeterminate loss in revenue to the Game and Fish Protection Account. Fewer small game licenses would be purchased since a person who accompanies a bear, bobcat, or fur-bearing animal hunter, but does not carry a firearm, bow, or possess a dog himself or herself, would no longer be required to have a hunting license. The Game and Fish Protection Account is used for game and fish management programs.
Fiscal Analyst: Jessica Runnels
Analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. hb5331/0708