EXPORTATION OF MINNOWS, WIGGLERS,

AND CRAYFISH AS BAIT

House Bill 5053

Sponsor:  Rep. Mike Shirkey

Committee:  Natural Resources, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation

Complete to 1-23-12

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5053 AS INTRODUCED 10-11-11

The bill would amend Section 48729 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to allow individuals in possession of the appropriate permit to transport live minnows, wigglers, or crayfish outside of Michigan.  Currently, live minnows, wigglers, and crayfish are not allowed to be transported outside of the state. 

Specifically, the bill would remove a provision that requires minnows, wigglers, or crayfish to be preserved in liquid and bottled for fish bait.  It also would eliminate language that allows the Department of Natural Resources to limit the taking of minnows by a licensed individual for preservation for fish bait purposes to 15 or fewer days per year.

MCL 324.48729

FISCAL IMPACT:

House Bill 5053 would have no significant fiscal impact on the Department of Natural Resources.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Jeff Stoutenburg

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Viola Bay Wild

■ 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.