2021 House Bill 4088

Prescribe rules for animal feeding

Introduced in the House

Feb. 2, 2021

Introduced by Rep. Ken Borton (R-105)

To establish that deer feeding from backyard bird feeders does not constitute "deer baiting" or feeding, which are currently prohibited due to disease transmission concerns. The bill would explicitly permit placing up to two gallons of bird seed in a feeder within 300 feet of a residence.

Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation

May 6, 2021

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

May 19, 2021

Amendment offered by Rep. Bill Sowerby (D-31)

To require the feeders used to exclude wild, free-ranging white-tailed deer and elk from gaining access.

The amendment failed by voice vote

May 20, 2021

Passed in the House 61 to 47 (details)

Received in the Senate

May 25, 2021

Referred to the Committee on Local Government

May 27, 2021

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Sept. 30, 2021

Passed in the Senate 20 to 15 (details)

To establish that deer feeding from backyard bird feeders does not constitute "deer baiting" or feeding, which are currently prohibited due to disease transmission concerns. The bill would explicitly permit placing up to two gallons of bird seed in a feeder within 300 feet of a residence.

Vetoed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Oct. 7, 2021