SB 17

Current law requires, with certain exceptions, that state parks be open to

hunting, fishing, and trapping by persons who hold the appropriate hunting, fishing,

or trapping license, permit, or other approval. One of the exceptions to this general

requirement provides that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) may

prohibit hunting, fishing, or trapping in a state park within 100 yards of a designated

use area. DNR may also prohibit hunting, fishing, or trapping in a state park if the

Natural Resources Board determines that the prohibition is necessary to protect

public safety or to protect a unique animal or plant community.

This bill generally eliminates the requirement that state parks be open to

hunting, fishing, and trapping. The bill prohibits a person from hunting in a state

park unless the person is hunting deer, elk, wild turkeys, or small game in the state

park and DNR has promulgated a rule that authorizes the hunting of that type of

game in the state park. The bill also prohibits a person from trapping in state parks.