The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to authorize the taking of feral swine that are causing damage, providing specific guidelines for their management. It modifies section 97A.56, subdivision 2, to allow individuals to hunt or trap feral swine under certain conditions, specifically referencing section 97B.655. Additionally, it establishes that if a person shoots a feral swine, they must report the incident to the commissioner within 24 hours and surrender the animal. Violations of these provisions are classified as misdemeanors, and offenders may be liable for costs and damages incurred due to the possession or release of feral swine.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 97B.655, subdivision 1, to include feral swine in the list of animals that landowners or their agents may take without a license when those animals are causing damage. The amendment specifies that while feral swine can be killed without a license, the individual must notify a conservation officer within 48 hours of the kill, but they are not required to surrender the animal to the commissioner. This change aims to provide landowners with more flexibility in managing feral swine populations that pose a threat to their property.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97A.56, 97B.655