The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to authorize the taking of feral swine that are causing damage, thereby providing landowners and occupants with the ability to manage these animals more effectively. Specifically, it modifies section 97A.56, subdivision 2, to allow individuals to hunt or trap feral swine under certain conditions, including the requirement to report the taking to the commissioner within 24 hours. Additionally, it establishes penalties for violations related to the possession or release of feral swine, which include misdemeanor charges and liability for damages incurred.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 97B.655, subdivision 1, to explicitly include feral swine in the list of animals that can be taken without a license when they are causing damage on owned or occupied land. The amendment specifies that individuals must notify a conservation officer within 48 hours after killing feral swine, but they are not required to surrender the animal to the commissioner, which provides more flexibility for landowners in managing feral swine populations.

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