SF541

SF541 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Feral swine causing damage taking authorization provision

Related bill: HF1298

AI Generated Summary

The bill SF No 541 proposes changes to how feral swine can be managed in Minnesota. It permits property owners or their agents to kill feral swine on their land if the animals are causing damage, without needing a special license. However, there are specific rules about how the animals can be killed (no artificial lights during closed season, no poison, certain rules about traps).

Additionally, the bill sets penalties for people who possess or release feral swine illegally — these individuals could face misdemeanor charges, be responsible for any damages caused, and for the costs incurred by the state in dealing with the released swine.

Anytime feral swine are killed under this new rule, the individual must notify a conservation officer or a wildlife division employee within 48 hours, but unlike other animals killed under similar circumstances, the feral swine do not need to be handed over to the state authorities.

Overall, this bill aims to control the population and impact of feral swine in Minnesota while holding people accountable for violations involving these animals.

Bill text versions

Introduction PDF file

Actions

Date	Chamber	Where	Type	Name	Committee Name
January 22, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading
January 22, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading
January 22, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Referred to	Environment, Climate, and Legacy
January 22, 2025	Senate	Floor	Action	Referred to	Environment, Climate, and Legacy

Citations

[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "The bill amends section 97A.56, subdivision 2, related to penalties and conditions for possessing or controlling feral swine.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies allowed actions regarding feral swine control by licensing and permission."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "97A.56",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Feral swine added to the list of animals that can be taken if causing damage."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "The bill amends section 97B.655, subdivision 1, concerning the taking of animals causing damage.",
      "modified": [
        "Adjusts the notification requirement for feral swine to 48 hours after being taken."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "97B.655",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Reference to tag requirements in section 97B.928 for traps used by agents of landowners or occupants.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "97B.928",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]