The bill proposes significant changes to the regulations surrounding deer hunting in Minnesota by eliminating the designated shotgun zone for taking deer. Specifically, it amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.031, by adding a new subdivision that allows the use of all legal firearms statewide during the regular firearms deer season. This change aims to provide hunters with greater flexibility in their choice of firearms for deer hunting.

Additionally, the bill repeals Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.318, which previously outlined restrictions on firearm use in designated shotgun areas. The repeal of this section effectively removes the limitations that required hunters in certain areas to use only shotguns loaded with single-slug shells, muzzle-loading long guns, or handguns. By making these amendments, the bill seeks to streamline hunting regulations and enhance the overall hunting experience in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97B.031, 97B.318