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 that the commissioner of natural resources must take necessary actions to fulfill the state's obligations under the Memorandum of Agreement, with payments being contingent upon legislative appropriation.

Additionally, the bill proposes a new section in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 97B, which outlines the process for Chippewa Bands to establish these open seasons. It also includes an appropriation of $3,000,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to support proportional payments to Tribes under the existing statute, with the commissioner required to collaborate with the signatory Tribes to update the relevant agreements.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97A.157