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HB 4851

Natural resources: other; property owned by the department of natural resources; limit to 50% in any state jurisdiction. Amends secs. 503 & 2132 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.503 & 324.2132).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Maddock

HB 4851 limits the Michigan DNR to owning no more than 50% of land within any jurisdiction, requiring sale of excess and restricting future acquisitions.

bill electronically reproduced 09/09/2025
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Bill Summary · HB 4851

Summary of HB 4851: Limit State Land Ownership

Bill Overview

HB 4851 is a bill that seeks to limit the amount of property that can be owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) within any given state jurisdiction to 50%. The bill amends sections 503 and 2132 of Public Act 451 of 1994, which governs the powers and duties of the DNR.

Key Provisions

The main provisions of HB 4851 include:

  1. Land Ownership Cap: The bill would prohibit the DNR from owning more than 50% of the total land area within any county, township, or other local government jurisdiction in Michigan.

  2. Existing Land Sales: The DNR would be required to sell off any state-owned lands that exceed the 50% ownership cap within 5 years of the bill's enactment.

  3. Land Acquisition Restrictions: Going forward, the DNR would be prohibited from acquiring additional land if it would result in the department owning more than 50% of the total land area in a given jurisdiction.

  4. Exemptions: The 50% ownership cap would not apply to land managed by the DNR for the following purposes: state parks, state forests, wildlife areas, or other designated recreational or conservation areas.

Impact and Implications

If enacted, HB 4851 would significantly impact the DNR's ability to acquire and hold onto state-owned lands. Supporters argue this will promote a better balance of public and private land ownership, while critics contend it would hamper the department's core mission of natural resource management and conservation.

The bill's passage could force the DNR to sell off substantial portions of its current land portfolio, potentially impacting public access, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities across the state. It may also complicate future land acquisitions and limit the state's ability to protect environmentally sensitive areas.

HB 4851 has been introduced alongside a companion bill, SB 2148, which proposes similar restrictions on DNR land ownership. Both bills are currently under consideration by the state legislature.

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

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