Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to provide Minnesota residents aged 70 or older with free licenses for angling (fishing), deer hunting, and small game hunting.

Main Provisions

• Free Licenses for Seniors: The bill requires that residents of Minnesota who are 70 years old or older be issued certain hunting and fishing licenses without a fee. These licenses include:
  1. A permanent fishing license.
  2. An annual deer hunting license (either by firearms or archery).
  3. An annual small game hunting license.
• Eligibility Verification: Seniors can use their driver's license or Minnesota identification card as proof of age to obtain these licenses.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97A.441, by adding a new subdivision that provides free licenses for seniors.
• Establishes the requirement that these licenses be issued at no cost, which is a change from previous policies where seniors may have been required to pay for these activities.

Relevant Terms

• Senior citizens
• Free angling license
• Deer hunting
• Small game hunting
• Minnesota residents aged 70 or older
• License fee waiver