The Minnesota Deer Hunters Association is committed to advocating for policies that preserve our hunting traditions, protect wildlife, and ensure fair access for all hunters. With the 2025 legislative session well underway, there are already key bills that require the attention and support of our valued members.

To keep things simple, we’ve put together a color-coded watch list to help you quickly see where MDHA stands on each piece of legislation. Here's what the colors mean:

🟢 Green: We support this bill.
🔴 Red: We oppose this bill.
⚪ Gray: We are neutral and still gathering more information about the bill.

Take a look at the legislative highlights below and why they matter for hunters like you.

🟢 Bills MDHA Supports
MDHA actively supports bills that enhance hunting opportunities, support conservation efforts, and reduce burdens on hunters. Here’s a breakdown:

SF243 and SF632 - Wolf Management Bills

Wolf populations continue to stir debate in Minnesota, and these bills aim to establish practical wolf management strategies. MDHA supports SF243 and SF632, which will allow more flexibility and input for managing wolf populations while ensuring the balance between livestock protection, wildlife conservation, and hunter interests.
Why It Matters: Wolves have a significant impact on game species and livestock. Sensible management policies are vital to maintaining balance.

SF11 – Tax Exemption on Firearm Safety Devices

Safety for hunters, their families, and communities is paramount. SF11 seeks to exempt firearm safety devices (like gun safes and trigger locks) from taxes, encouraging more gun owners to secure their firearms responsibly.
Why It Matters: This makes firearm safety more affordable, supporting responsible gun ownership statewide.

SF107 and SF1156 – Shotgun Zone Legislation
The restrictions on shotgun zones can be limiting for some hunters. SF107 & SF1156 proposes less restrictions for these areas, offering more accessibility and opportunities for hunters to exercise their sport.
Why It Matters: Expanding hunting zones options gives more access for hunters across Minnesota.

SF1251 – Crossbow Bill
Crossbow hunting is growing in popularity and accessibility for hunters of all ages and capabilities. SF1251 supports expanded opportunities for crossbow enthusiasts, particularly during general hunting seasons.
Why It Matters: Crossbows open hunting to wider audiences, including new hunters and those with physical limitations.

SF889 – Age-Related License Modifications
SF889 proposes sensible updates to age-related hunting license requirements.
Why It Matters: Expanding youth participation is key, and licensing laws should reflect that!

🔴 Bills MDHA Opposes
These bills pose potential risks to wildlife health or our cherished hunting heritage. MDHA is opposed to the following:

SF553, SF659, and SF739 – Farmed Cervid Bills
These proposed bills collectively focus on farmed cervidae, MDHA strongly opposes them due to their potential impact on wild deer populations. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) remains a serious threat, and the proposed legislation could increase risks to wild deer by loosening restrictions or creating gaps in disease control measures.
Why It Matters: Protecting wild deer from CWD is critical for the future of hunting and wildlife conservation in Minnesota.

⚪ Other Bills We're Watching

This year’s legislative season is still unfolding, and additional bills continue to surface. We're keeping tabs on some notable pieces of legislation where we are yet to form a definitive stance. These include measures related to conservation funding, public hunting land access, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
If these bills shift into actionable items, we’ll provide updates and guidance on what MDHA members can do to help influence outcomes.

 
How You Can Stay Engaged

Your voice matters, and as Minnesota hunters, you have the power to shape the future of hunting in our state. Here’s how you can support MDHA’s legislative efforts:

1. Stay Updated
Our legislative watch list will evolve as the session progresses. Visit our website regularly to see the most current updates and additional bills we're following.

2. Take Action When Needed
Look out for our call-to-action updates. When we need your voice—whether it’s calling your local representative or signing a petition—we’ll guide you through the process.

3. Support Wolf Management Bills (SF243 and SF632)
If you care about balanced ecosystem management and a better future for hunters and wildlife alike, we urge you to support these wolf management initiatives. Write to your legislators and show your support!

4. Join the Community
If you’re not already part of MDHA, now is a great time to join. Together, we can make a greater impact on legislation that supports hunters and conservation efforts across Minnesota.

Securing the Future of Hunting
Minnesota hunters have always played a major role in conserving our state’s wildlife and natural resources. By staying involved and informed, we can protect hunting traditions for future generations.
Thank you for standing with MDHA as we advocate for policies that safeguard wildlife, improve hunting opportunities, and protect our shared values.
Together, we hunt responsibly and advocate boldly.