The first of what may be several proposals to increase license fees for hunting and fishing in Minnesota was heard March 15th in the Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee of the House. Without some kind of increase, according to officials of the DNR, its Game and Fish Account will drop below the break-even point sometime next year.
Under the plan reviewed last week, the cost of a single fishing license would go from $17 to $24, and other licenses would also go up accordingly. Much like the DNR plan put forth a year ago, non-resident fees would not go up as much, percentage-wise, as those for Minnesota residents. It was pointed out, however, that fishing licenses for out-of-state residents were increased several years ago when the license for portable ice fishing shelters was discontinued. Aside from that one instance, it’s been over ten years since hunting and fishing fees have been increased.
I’ve received many e-mails from Minnesotans encouraging support for the higher license fees, in addition to a letter signed by many of the state’s sportsmen’s clubs and organizations. However, the passage of increased licenses is far from a sure thing as some feel the DNR could reduce its expenses rather than raise fees.
Three weeks of session remain before the Legislature takes its Easter/Passover recess. After returning from that break, we have two weeks left before the tentative adjournment date of April 30th. It remains to be seen if we can complete our work by that time as we still haven’t considered a bonding bill yet which, is probably the biggest piece of legislation left. Then there’s the matter of a Vikings’ stadium, whose prospects are growing bleaker by the day. There is uncertainty about electronic pull-tabs being able to generate enough revenue to cover the stadium bond payments, in addition to allowing charities to pay a lower tax rate to the state.
I have heard several concerns voiced about the state getting into competition with local clubs and service organizations as the transition is made to electronic pull tabs. That is not the case, however, as those who currently offer paper pull tabs will be allowed to switch over to the newer version.
Our weather this past week end was certainly enjoyable. We saw bicycles, motorcycles and other “summer” forms of transportation out in force as Minnesotans took advantage of balmy temps. The report that International Falls, known as the nation’s icebox, recorded a high of 77 degrees last Saturday, breaking its old mark by 22 degrees, was amazing. It does, however, make one pause and give thought about what may be ahead for summer. With very little run-off this spring, many sloughs and pot-holes are already down considerably from normal; even heard a report of small grain being planted in the Melrose area.
Rep. Anderson can be contacted by email at rep.paul.anderson@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-4317. To receive email updates sign-up on his webpage at www.house.mn/13a
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