This bill authorizes certain Chippewa Bands to establish open seasons for big game hunting in accordance with the 1854 treaty, allowing them to independently set hunting seasons if the state commissioner does not do so. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97A.157, subdivision 4, to clarify the commissioner's powers and duties regarding the Memorandum of Agreement, specifically stating that payments under the agreement are contingent upon legislative appropriation.

Additionally, the bill includes a financial appropriation of $3,000,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to the commissioner of natural resources for proportional payments to Tribes under Minnesota Statutes, section 97A.157. The commissioner is tasked with collaborating with the signatory Tribes to update and amend the affected agreement, ensuring that the terms reflect the needs and agreements of the involved parties.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97A.157