This bill (S.F. No. 2151) proposes an appropriation of $500,000 from the general fund in fiscal year 2026 to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The funds will be allocated as a grant to the 1854 Treaty Authority to conduct a study on bear populations within the ceded territory defined in the September 30, 1854 treaty between the Lake Superior Chippewa and the U.S. government.

The study is required to assess the current bear population, identify factors affecting these populations, and estimate future population trends. The 1854 Treaty Authority must submit the study's findings by December 31, 2026, to the chairs and ranking minority members of the Senate and House committees responsible for environmental policy.