Keeping our members informed and involved is at the heart of what we stand for at the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA). With another legislative session in St. Paul moving forward, it’s time to share updates on key bills affecting hunters, conservation efforts, and wildlife management across Minnesota.

From critical victories against harmful legislation to the bills we're actively supporting, there's plenty to discuss. Here's a comprehensive look at where things stand, what we’ve achieved, and what’s still in progress.

Wolf Management Bills and Future Possibilities

If you’ve been keeping an eye on wolf management this session, you might already know that as of the April 11 deadline, none of the Minnesota wolf-related bills were passed out of committee. We will continue to advocate for this legislation next year. While this may seem like a setback, it’s important to note that all hope is not lost for a potential 2025 Minnesota wolf hunt.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has signaled that a wolf hunt could still happen this year, contingent on federal decisions regarding wolf protections. If the federal government elects to remove wolves from the endangered species list (which seems highly likely), it opens the door for the DNR to take action on establishing a hunt. Although it wouldn’t be required, the DNR has expressed readiness to consider the option.

This means we remain optimistic and committed to advocating for responsible wolf management. Stay tuned as we continue monitoring developments and pushing for a wolf hunting season as soon as it becomes feasible.

Bills We Successfully Fought to Stop

Here at MDHA, we dedicate significant effort not only to advancing the legislative initiatives we support but also to stopping harmful bills that could negatively affect hunters and conservation efforts. This year was no different, and we’re proud to report several key wins:

1. High-Fence Captive Deer Operations

We successfully protected the health of our wild deer herd by blocking bills that would have removed many of the increased restrictions placed upon high fence captive deer operations. 

2. Conservation Officer Safety

A proposed bill that would have made the work of conservation officers more dangerous and difficult was also stopped in its tracks. Additionally, this effort preserved resources for sheriff departments, which would have been burdened by increased responsibilities under the proposed measure.

3. Deer Hunting Schedule

Maintaining Minnesota’s traditional deer hunting timing is something we know our members value deeply. That’s why we fought to stop an initiative aiming to change the schedule for deer hunting. The result? Our cherished hunting traditions remain intact.

4. Lead Ammunition Prohibition

Proposals introducing new restrictions on the use of lead ammunition were thwarted thanks to MDHA’s active involvement. By stopping these laws, we saved hunters money and ensured they have the flexibility to choose the most practical ammunition.

5. Firearm Appearance-Based Restrictions

We also opposed legislative efforts to restrict the sale or transfer of firearms based solely on appearance. These proposals risked adding unnecessary complications for lawful gun owners, and we're pleased to report they did not pass.

Bills Still on MDHA’s Active Agenda

While we’ve made significant strides, several important bills remain in progress and require your support. Here’s what we’re working on:

1. Elimination of the Shotgun Zone with County Control

(HF2245 & SF107)

This bill focuses on eliminating the shotgun-only zone requirements while giving control to individual counties. We stand behind this legislation to provide hunters with more flexibility and efficiency.

2. Crossbow Usage Without Expiration

(HF1531 & SF1251)

We believe the state should not dictate what types of legal archery equipment hunters can use. MDHA fully supports removing expiration limits on crossbow usage, advocating for fair opportunities for all archers.

3. Exempting Firearm Safety Devices

(HF1203 & SF11)

Firearm safety is critical, and this bill to exempt firearm safety devices from sales tax has MDHA’s full backing. It emphasizes keeping our communities safer while reducing expenses for firearm users.

4. Opposition to Importing Wild Deer

While MDHA supports proactive wildlife management, we hold serious concerns about the remaining bill on importing wild deer into “certain” facilities. The wording is too vague, and we urge legislators to clarify the language to ensure transparency and prevent unintended consequences.

Stand with Us and Take Action

We couldn't achieve these victories without the enduring support of our members. Your dedication to conservation and hunting traditions is what drives MDHA forward. Here’s how you can help us continue making a difference:

1. Contact Your Representatives

Reach out to your local representatives and ask them to support the bills MDHA is actively championing. Encourage them to join us in protecting Minnesota's hunting heritage.

2. Stay Engaged

Keep an eye on MDHA newsletters and updates for the latest on legislative actions, upcoming votes, and ways you can get involved.

3. Support MDHA

Your contributions and membership matter. If you're not already a member, consider joining MDHA today to stand with fellow hunters and conservationists dedicated to protecting our traditions.

Keep Protecting Minnesota’s Hunting Heritage Together

Thanks to the collective efforts of MDHA members, we've had a successful session so far this year, stopping harmful legislation and preserving the rights and traditions our community values so deeply. But the work isn't over. With several key bills still in discussion, your voice will help shape the future of hunting and conservation in Minnesota.

Stay determined, stay vocal, and together, we’ll keep Minnesota's hunting heritage strong!