This bill proposes appropriations for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026, with a gross appropriation of $636,327,000 sourced from federal revenues, special revenue funds, and the state general fund. It details funding allocations across various divisions, including wildlife management, fisheries management, law enforcement, and parks and recreation, while also specifying full-time positions and budgetary needs. The bill emphasizes targeted funding for initiatives such as the Great Lakes restoration and invasive species control, aiming to enhance the management and conservation of Michigan's natural resources.
Additionally, the bill introduces several new funds, including the Forest Development Fund and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, and allocates $6,000,000 from the Michigan Game and Fish Protection Trust Fund. It establishes a structured process for grant applications, requiring transparency and accountability, and mandates that unspent funds be returned to the state treasury by September 30, 2030. The bill also emphasizes fiscal management by ensuring that unexpended revenue is carried forward to the next fiscal year and requires departments to report on any projected lapses in funding. Overall, the bill aims to enhance environmental protection efforts while ensuring responsible use of state resources.