This bill introduces changes to Minnesota's game and fish regulations related to moose hunting. Key provisions include:

1. Moose Hunting Licenses:

   • The commissioner must determine the number of moose hunting licenses and the maximum party size (up to six people).
   • At least four moose hunting licenses must be issued annually—two through a lottery system and two through a public auction.

2. Eligibility and Application:

   • Only Minnesota residents who have not received a moose hunting license since January 1, 1991, are eligible, except for auction participants.
   • Individuals who received a license in the past ten years cannot participate in the lottery.
   • A $25 nonrefundable application fee applies to all applicants.
   • Applicants may only submit one application per season for each type of license.
   • A certain percentage of licenses is reserved for agricultural landowners and frequent applicants who have never received a license.

3. Lottery and Auction System:

   • An annual lottery will be held for eligible residents.
   • An annual auction will be open to residents and nonresidents, with licenses sold to the highest bidders.

4. Moose Research Account:

   • A new account within the game and fish fund is established.
   • Revenue from application fees and licenses (including auction proceeds) will be used for moose research, such as monitoring mortality, disease prevalence, and habitat relationships.

5. Nonresident Fees:

   • Nonresidents who obtain a moose hunting license through the auction must pay a $500 fee.

6. Season and Regulations:

   • The commissioner must announce the number of licenses, season dates, and hunting zones at least 60 days before the application deadline.

These changes aim to regulate moose hunting while funding conservation and research efforts in Minnesota.