Youth Fishing Licenses
The Michigan Senate vote unanimously in favor of the bipartisan package that Mark Stephens (Project Fish), sponsored with Rep. Gary Howell to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to reestablish the optional $2 youth fishing license in Michigan.
The bills are now on the way to Gov. Whitmer’s desk. The optional youth fishing license was mistakenly repealed in 2016. As a result, Michigan has been losing out on federal Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Program funds to invest here in Michigan. This makes it one of the few bills passed this session that will increase revenue to our state. The optional youth fishing license is a great way to help inspire future generations to enjoy Michigan’s vast natural resources and fishing opportunities while supporting the conservation efforts that are essential to our hunting and fishing tradition in Michigan. Before it was repealed, thousands of parents believed this $2 was a good investment in conservation activities. Along with the federal funds, the youth fishing license raised enough to fund contamination and remediation efforts for a good-sized inland lake every year. It also provided their child with what is most likely the first official thing they can put in their wallet or purse, giving them a sense of pride that they belong to something much larger than themselves.
I’m honored that this legislation is supported by every environmental and fishing organization in Michigan, including Michigan United Conservation Clubs, Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen’s Association, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Clean Water Action, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Charter Boat Association, and Michigan Trout Unlimited, said Mark.
