06/01/2026
🏛️ **2026 Legislative Session Update for Minnesota Hunters**
The 2026 Minnesota legislative session has wrapped up, and there were several important developments affecting hunters, wildlife management, and conservation across our state.
✅ **Crossbows Here to Stay**
Thanks in part to testimony and advocacy efforts, legislation was passed removing the sunset provision on crossbow use during Minnesota's regular archery deer and turkey seasons. This provides long-term certainty for thousands of Minnesota hunters.
🦌 **New Deer Research Investments**
Funding was approved for several important deer-related research projects, including:
• Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) research and improved early detection efforts.
• GPS collar studies examining deer survival, habitat use, predator impacts, and seasonal movements in northwest and central Minnesota.
🐺 **Wolf Research Funding**
Funding was also approved to support wolf population monitoring and management planning on the Leech Lake Reservation to better understand wolf populations and guide future management decisions.
🌲 **Outdoor Heritage Investments**
The Outdoor Heritage Fund continues to support habitat conservation, wildlife management, and land acquisition projects benefiting Minnesota hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Investments will help expand and restore Wildlife Management Areas, Scientific and Natural Areas, and Waterfowl Production Areas across the state.
🎯 **Protecting Hunting Traditions**
Legislation that would have banned certain semi-automatic fi****ms and magazines failed to advance this session, preserving access to commonly used sporting and hunting fi****ms.
Thank you to the members, volunteers, and hunters who stay engaged in the legislative process. Your voice matters, and together we continue working to protect Minnesota's hunting heritage, wildlife habitat, and outdoor traditions for future generations.
