The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating several sections related to the management and designation of wildlife species in Michigan. Key changes include the addition of the Upper Peninsula (UP) commission as an authority alongside the legislature and the commission in designating wildlife species as game and establishing open seasons for hunting. The bill specifies that the UP commission may issue orders consistent with sound scientific wildlife management principles and prohibits the designation of domestic animals and livestock as game. Additionally, it authorizes the establishment of the first open season for moose and wolf hunting, with the latter being limited to the Upper Peninsula.

Further amendments emphasize the importance of wildlife populations and their habitats, asserting that sound management practices, including hunting, are necessary to minimize negative encounters between humans and wildlife. The bill clarifies the exclusive authority of the UP commission to regulate the taking of game that impacts only the Upper Peninsula and mandates public input before issuing orders. It also reinforces the cultural significance of hunting and fishing in Michigan, declaring that citizens have the right to engage in these activities, subject to regulations. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of three related bills in the legislature.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 324.40110