HB 5665 Summary

• Amends MCL 324.501 to revise the composition and qualifications of the Natural Resources Commission to 7 members, with no more than 4 from the same political party, appointed by the governor with senate consent.

• Requires at least 2 commission members to hold a 4-year degree from an accredited college or university in biology, fisheries, wildlife, natural resource management, or related subjects.

• Establishes a 3-term limit for commission members, with individuals serving more than 2 years of a term counted as having served a full term.

• Requires the governor to seek balanced representation reflecting all aspects of natural resource management, including sport fishers, commercial fishers, hunters, private landowners, recreationalists, environmentalists, conservationists, and scientists.

• Updates statutory language to clarify that the commission advises the director on natural resources matters and clarifies the director's authority to delegate decision-making powers in writing to deputies and other staff.