This bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (1994 PA 451) by updating definitions and regulations related to fishing and aquatic species in Michigan. Key changes include the clarification of terms such as "amphibian," "crustacea," "game fish," and "nongame fish," with specific scientific classifications added. The bill also modifies the regulations surrounding fishing methods, specifying the use of single lines or rods, and introduces the Upper Peninsula (UP) commission's authority to regulate sport fishing in that region. Additionally, it mandates that any tip-up or similar device used for ice fishing must have the owner's name and address marked on it.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the threat posed by aquatic invasive species, particularly Asian carp, to Michigan's fisheries and ecosystems. It grants the UP commission exclusive authority to regulate sport fishing in the Upper Peninsula while ensuring that sound scientific management principles guide their decisions. The commission is required to hold public meetings and provide advance notice of any regulatory orders. The bill also allocates $1,000,000 for the Department of Natural Resources to manage invasive species, with unspent funds carried forward for future use. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of three related bills in the legislature.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 324.48701