HB 5560 Summary

• Amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to grant the Natural Resources Commission exclusive authority to regulate sport fishing under Part 487, in addition to its existing authority over game taking.

• Requires the Commission to utilize sound scientific management principles when making decisions about game taking and sport fishing, including consideration of department personnel, independent experts, scientific literature, and public input.

• Mandates the Commission provide a copy of any order regarding game taking or sport fishing to legislative committees, appropriations committee chairs, and relevant subcommittees at least 30 days before issuance.

• Declares that hunting, fishing, and game taking are a valued part of Michigan's cultural heritage and economy, and establishes that citizens have a right to hunt, fish, and take game subject to Commission regulations.

• Takes effect 90 days after enactment and is contingent upon the passage of HB 5558 and HB 5559.