This bill establishes a moose license lottery and auction system in Minnesota, requiring the issuance of at least four moose licenses each year, with two licenses allocated through a lottery and two through a public auction. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97A.431, to include new provisions for eligibility, application fees, and separate selection processes for certain applicants. Specifically, it introduces a moose research account funded by revenue from license fees and auctions, which will be used to support moose management and research efforts.

Additionally, the bill amends section 97A.475, subdivision 3, to include a new fee of $500 for successful bidders obtaining a moose license through the auction. It also mandates that the commissioner publicly disclose the number of licenses, season dates, and conditions for taking moose at least 60 days prior to application deadlines. These changes aim to enhance moose population management and ensure a fair distribution of hunting opportunities among eligible applicants.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97A.431, 97A.475, 97B.505