Legislative
News
MBI
Prepared for Upcoming Legislative Session
Minnesota’s
legislative session is right around the corner and
MBI is prepared to track any legislation that might
affect bowhunting. MBI has made it a priority to
take a stand on issues that either enhance or hinder
our sport. First, MBI will be attending the annual
forum hosted by the Minnesota DNR. The forum provides
opportunities to talk to DNR staff and legislators
about bowhunting concerns. Then in February, the
Legislature will begin their committee hearings.
MBI will keep an eye out for new laws or changes
to current laws that could impact bowhunting. If
we think it’s important to take a position
on an issue, or even testify in support or in opposition,
we will do just that.
In recent
years, MBI testified in support of the venison donation
program and reducing the draw-weight requirement
for hunting to 30 pounds. We also provided opposing
testimony to fend off an attempt by crossbow users
to change the definition of archery equipment in
order to allow crossbows in the archery season.
Remember,
MBI can be your voice when such issues arise. If
there’s an issue or concern that you feel
MBI should become involved with, please contact
MBI President Tony Kuehn at (651) 433-1130 or Email
MBI
Constitutional
Amendment Outdoor Heritage Fund Controvery
It appears that the Constitutional Amendment
Outdoor Heritage Fund (OHF) language for allowable
expenditures is going to be a hot topic in the legislature
this session.
At first
glance a bowhunter might ask "what does the
amendment have to do with bowhunting?" Minnesota's
sportsmen and women overwhelmingly supported this
amendment in part because '33 percent of the receipts
shall be deposited in the outdoor heritage fund
and may be spent only to restore, protect, and enhance
wetlands, prairies, forests, and habitat for fish,
game, and wildlife.' That sure sounds like it will
impact bowhunting!
Another
aspect of the amendment that will benefit bowhunters
is that 'Land acquired by fee with money deposited
in the outdoor heritage fund under this section
must be open to the public taking of fish and game
during the open season unless otherwise provided
by law.' Access to land is becoming a problem and
concern to many bowhunters.
It would
appear there are legislators who would like to tap
into this pot of money to fund their other interests.
Here is what some local sports writers have to say:
