Michigan DNR Budget Proposal is DOA In State House Over Fee Increases

Michigan lawmakers clash over a proposed $10 mandatory recreation passport fee and increased hunting and fishing license costs in Michigan DNR budget, igniting statewide controversy.

---

Mandatory Recreation Passport Fee Faces Strong Opposition in Michigan House

A proposed $10 mandatory recreation passport fee for all Michigan vehicle registrations has ignited significant controversy in the state legislature. The Senate’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) budget proposal, which includes this fee, aims to generate approximately $43.5 million in additional revenue for state parks and recreational facilities.

However, the Michigan DNR budget proposal has been met with strong opposition from House Republicans. State Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord), chair of the House DNR budget committee, labeled the budget as “the most unserious, disappointing, and embarrassing” he has seen in years. He further criticized the proposal, stating, “They didn’t just kick the hornet’s nest; they shoved their entire head in and headed straight for a bear den.”

Rep. David Martin (R-Davison), chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources and Tourism, also expressed his disapproval, emphasizing the financial burden on Michigan residents. “Our constituents should not be penalized for choosing to put food on the table or enjoying Michigan’s great outdoor attractions,” Martin said

---

Senate’s Bipartisan Proposal Includes Hunting and Fishing License Fee Increases

The Senate’s budget proposal, championed by Senators John Cherry (D-Flint) and Jon Bumstead (R-North Muskegon), also includes significant increases in hunting and fishing license fees. Under Senate Bills 276 and 277, the base hunting license would rise to $15, a combination hunt/fish license to $100, and an all-species fishing license to $30. Additionally, a $5 surcharge would be added to certain licenses, with funds earmarked for programs like Hunters Feeding Michigan and a new hunting and fishing education recruitment fund.

Senator Cherry emphasized that the proposal is a grassroots effort aimed at ensuring the DNR has the necessary resources to manage and protect Michigan’s natural resources. He stated, “The goal of this package is to ensure the DNR has the resources it needs to protect, manage, and improve our great natural resources.”

Senator Bumstead highlighted the need for increased funding, noting that the DNR manages 4.6 million acres of land and that the last fee restructuring occurred 13 years ago. “If we use it, we have to pay for it,” Bumstead said, referring to the proposed fee increases.

---

Critics Argue Fee Increases Are Unjustified and Burdensome

Opponents of the Senate’s proposal argue that the mandatory recreation passport fee and increased license costs place an undue burden on Michigan residents. Rep. Borton criticized the proposal as a “DNR tax,” expressing concern that it would make outdoor activities less accessible to the average Michigander. GoHouse

Rep. Martin echoed these sentiments, stating, “I’ll always be opposed to burdening Michigan residents with excessive fees.” He emphasized the importance of making Michigan’s natural attractions accessible to all, without imposing additional financial barriers.

---

House Republicans Signal Intent to Reject Senate Budget Proposal

Given the strong opposition from key House Republicans, the Senate’s DNR budget proposal faces significant challenges in the House. Rep. Borton has previously threatened to zero out the DNR budget if the department continues to pursue what he views as radical fee increases. “Don’t think that just because a Republican put their name on this that I won’t still defund the DNR into oblivion,” Borton warned.

As the budget negotiations continue, the future of the proposed mandatory recreation passport fee and increased license costs remains uncertain. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between the need for sustainable funding for Michigan’s natural resources and the desire to keep outdoor activities affordable for residents.

---

Find More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind

• Michigan Feature Stories – Unveiling the diverse and vibrant people, captivating places, and remarkable events that make the Great Lake State unique and cherished by both residents and visitors alike.
• Weird Political News – A sarcastic take on official news from around the U.S., exploring the absurdities that often arise in the political landscape while providing a humorous perspective on current events and highlighting the quirks of politicians and policies.
• Michigan News – News and events from Michigan’s Upper Thumb region worth knowing, including local stories, impactful interviews, and updates on community happenings that shape the culture and lifestyle of the area.

---

Your Turn – Like This, or Loath it – We Want To Hear From You

Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. We review each response. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your email box, or check us out on ThumbWind Publications.

Sources – Works Cited

1. “Reps. Borton, Martin: Senate DNR Budget Is Dead on Arrival in House.” Michigan House Republicans, 15 May 2025, https://gophouse.org/posts/reps-borton-martin-senate-dnr-budget-is-dead-on-arrival-in-house.
2. “Michigan Senators Drop New License Fee Package.” Michigan United Conservation Clubs, 10 May 2025, https://www.mucc.org/michigan-senators-drop-new-license-fee-package.
3. Rozycki, John. “Michigan Hunting, Fishing License Fee Increase Proposed by Senators.” Midland Daily News, 10 May 2025, https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/michigan-hunting-fishing-license-fee-increase-20319474.php.
4. “Senators Propose Bill to Increase the Price of Hunting and Fishing Licenses.” The Alpena News, 11 May 2025, https://www.thealpenanews.com/news/local-news/2025/05/senators-propose-bill-to-increase-the-price-of-hunting-and-fishing-licenses/.
5. “Senate Fiscal Agency Bill Analysis: SB 276 and SB 277.” Michigan Legislature, 9 May 2025, https://legislature.mi.gov/documents/2025-2026/billanalysis/Senate/pdf/2025-SFA-0172-F.pdf.