HF 2634

as introduced - 93rd Legislature (2023 - 2024) Posted on 03/06/2023 11:43am

A bill for an act
relating to game and fish; allowing additional firearms to be used during the
muzzleloader deer season; amending Minnesota Statutes 2022, sections 97A.015,
subdivision 32a; 97B.311.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 97A.015, subdivision 32a, is amended to read:

Subd. 32a.

Muzzleloader season.

"Muzzleloader season" means the deer season open
only for legal muzzle-loading firearms new text begin and single-shot firearms made using a flintlock or
percussion-cap ignition system designed before 1865 new text end , as prescribed by the commissioner.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 97B.311, is amended to read:

97B.311 DEER SEASONS AND RESTRICTIONS.

(a) The commissioner may, by rule, prescribe restrictions and designate areas where
deer may be taken, including hunter selection criteria for special hunts established under
section 97A.401, subdivision 4. The commissioner may, by rule, prescribe the open seasons
for deer within the following periods:

(1) taking with firearms, other than muzzle-loading firearms, between November 1 and
December 15;

(2) taking with muzzle-loading firearms new text begin or single-shot firearms made using a flintlock
or percussion-cap ignition system designed before 1865 new text end between September 1 and December
31; and

(3) taking by archery between September 1 and December 31.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), the commissioner may establish special seasons
within designated areas at any time of year.