Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s proposed budget for 2026 seeks to raise nearly $30 million through increased fees for hunting, fishing, and watercraft registrations in Michigan. While the fees haven’t changed in over a decade, specifics on the proposed increases, which could range from 30% to 60%, are not yet disclosed, leaving Michiganders in search of clarity on how much they will actually pay.
Under the plan, which has faced criticism from legislative Republicans for potentially burdening residents amid ongoing inflation, the additional revenue is intended to fund expanded outdoor recreation access and improve state park maintenance. Despite the lack of a detailed fee schedule, the House Fiscal Agency has indicated that some fees might effectively double compared to current rates, prompting concerns about the impact on outdoor enthusiasts.
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