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HB 6040

Natural resources: hunting; hunting accessibility zones and events; provide for. Amends sec. 43523a of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.43523a) & adds sec. 43540f.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Fitzgerald and 4 co-sponsors

HB 6040 expands hunting accessibility by creating disability-accessible zones, adaptive guides, and mentor programs to help hunters with disabilities participate on state lands.

bill electronically reproduced 06/03/2026
#disabilities:other #naturalresources:hunting
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Bill Summary · HB 6040

Summary of HB 6040 (2025-2026) — Michigan

HB 6040 seeks to modify hunting laws and establish enhanced accessibility measures for hunters with disabilities on state-managed lands. The bill focuses on base licensing changes and the creation of dedicated hunting zones and adaptive hunting programs to improve participation for people with disabilities.

1) Main purpose and intent

  • Expand accessibility and inclusivity in hunting by creating designated, disability-accessible zones and adaptive hunting opportunities.
  • Provide structured support (guides, mentorship, training) to help hunters with disabilities participate more fully in hunting activities on state lands.
  • Clarify and adjust licensing provisions related to base licenses and nonresident small game licenses.

2) Key provisions and changes

A. Base license and small game licensing (Section 43523a)

  • Reinstates and clarifies the requirement that individuals must possess a current base license to hunt small game, with certain exceptions noted for special licenses.
  • Allows for the taking of specified fur-bearing animals by means other than trapping, during open fur-bearing seasons, if authorized by an order under part 401. Notably, bobcat hunting does not require a base license for individuals who:
    • Do not carry a firearm, bow, or crossbow, and
    • Do not own dogs used to chase or locate a bobcat during the hunt, when accompanying a licensed hunter.
  • Establishes base license fees:
    • Resident: $10 (general case)
    • Resident with disabilities, resident minor child, or nonresident minor child: $5
    • Nonresident: $150
  • Base license validity window: void from 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise (with an exception for coyote hunting).
  • Nonresident options:
    • A 7-day limited nonresident small game license for $80, covering all small game available to nonresident base license holders; does not, by itself, authorize other licenses except waterfowl under a separate provision.
    • A 3-day limited nonresident small game license for $50 (effective starting March 1, 2018), covering all small game under a nonresident base license; similarly does not authorize other licenses except waterfowl under section 43525b.
  • Administrative note: By March 1, 2018, the department must develop an electronic license display to show an electronic copy of a base license.

B. Accessibility and adaptive hunting initiatives (Section 43540f)

  • Establish designated hunting zones on state-managed lands that feature:
    • Paved or mowed paths
    • Accessible blinds
    • Vehicle access designed for people with disabilities
  • Adopt programs to pair individuals with disabilities with trained adaptive-hunting guides for various game species.
  • Publish an official interactive map showing accessibility features to help planning.
  • Develop specialized hunter safety training tailored for people with disabilities, including online and in-person adaptive instruction focusing on safe participation and accommodation tools.
  • Partner with nonprofit organizations to support outdoor access, host adaptive hunts, or provide disability resources.
  • Create a state-supported mentor recruitment and training program to pair licensed hunters with people with disabilities, potentially including incentives or recognition for mentors.
  • Ensure that any designated hunting zone does not impose more restrictive rules on people with disabilities than statewide norms unless necessary for public safety or wildlife conservation. If restrictions are necessary, provide comparable opportunities through alternative locations, seasons, or methods reasonably accessible to people with disabilities.
  • Definition: “Person with disabilities” aligns with the definition in section 19a of the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.19a).

3) Who would be affected

  • Hunters and prospective hunters, including residents and nonresidents, by base and nonresident license requirements and fee structures.
  • People with disabilities seeking to hunt, who would benefit from:
    • Designated accessible hunting zones
    • Adaptive hunting guides and safety training
    • Mentor programs and partnerships with nonprofits
    • Accessible planning tools (interactive accessibility map)
  • State-managed land managers and the Department of Natural Resources, which would implement zones, safety training, partnerships, and maps.
  • Nonprofit organizations involved in outdoor access and adaptive hunting initiatives.

4) Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill includes requirements for the department to:
    • Develop electronic display of base licenses (by March 1, 2018).
    • Establish and publish designated zones, adaptive programs, and safety training (ongoing as implemented).
    • Create and maintain an interactive accessibility map.
    • Partner with external organizations and establish a mentor program (state-supported).
  • The bill’s action history shows introduction and committee referral occurring in June 2026, with an electronic reproduction date of June 4, 2026, and assignment to the Natural Resources and Tourism Committee.

Notes

  • Some provisions reference dates tied to 2018 (e.g., electronic license display, 3-day license implementation), indicating the bill builds on existing statutory framework and previously enacted amendments. If enacted, administrative rules and timelines would guide the rollout of the accessibility initiatives.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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