The Brief
- A group of Minnesota lawmakers are considering proposals that would either make fishing licenses free for those over 65 years old, or reduce the fees for them.
- Supporters of the proposals say making it easier to get outdoors increases the quality of life for senior citizens in the state.
- However, officials with the DNR are concerned about the lost revenue, saying anglers 65 and older currently contribute about $4 million annually in license fees to the state’s game and fish fund.
ALEXANDRIA, Minn. (FOX 9) – A popular pastime in the land of 10,000 lakes could become free for senior citizens if a bill before lawmakers is approved.
Free fishing licenses in Minnesota
What we know:
A proposal before Minnesota legislators in the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee on Thursday that the Grumpy Old Men would approve of sought to make fishing free for those 65 and older.
“I’ve heard time and time again that those 65 and older would like the opportunity to not have to pay for a fishing license,” said the proposal’s sponsor, Rep. Mary Franson (R-Alexandria), who noted a letter of support from one of her constituents, Roger, who’s 80, and has been “pushing her on this.”…