MI SB1072

Beginning March 1, 2017, commercial hunting guides in Michigan must possess a valid permit issued by the department and a valid base license under section 43523a.

Applicants for the commercial hunting guide permit must submit an application fee, hold current first aid and CPR certification from approved organizations, maintain commercial general liability insurance of at least $300,000 per claim and $1,000,000 aggregate, and possess a valid Michigan driver's license, state ID card, or sportcard.

Individuals convicted within the past 5 years of violations under natural resources laws (parts 401, 445, or 487), violations of orders issued under those parts, or any felony are ineligible for permits.

Commercial hunting guides must file annual reports with the department detailing counties of operation, game species guided, number of clients, number of animals harvested, and other biological information requested by the department; reports are confidential and exempt from public disclosure.

Violations include a $2,000 civil fine for first offense and $4,000 for subsequent offenses for operating without a valid permit or guiding on commercial forestland; providing false information is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days imprisonment or $1,000-$2,500 fine.