The Michigan House of Representatives recently passed a bill that would lift the ban on deer baiting throughout the Lower Peninsula.
A Shift in Policy
Currently, baiting – the practice of using food to attract deer for hunting – has been prohibited in the Lower Peninsula since 2018. This ban was originally enacted by state wildlife regulators in an effort to curb the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal and contagious brain disease affecting deer. As of now, CWD has been detected in 16 counties within the Lower Peninsula.
While the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) previously opposed lifting the ban, its position has evolved. Taylor Ridderbusch, chief of staff at the DNR, stated, “We’re certainly open to that discussion.” However, the DNR prefers that any changes to the baiting policy originate with the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) rather than the Legislature.
Concerns Over Legislative Authority
Ridderbusch explained that the NRC is “charged with using sound scientific management” when creating regulations, providing “that extra layer of protection.” Jim Sweeney, a hunter from Leelanau County and lobbyist with the Concerned Sportsmen of Michigan, echoed this sentiment. Sweeney argued that delegating natural resources policy to experts like the DNR and NRC prevents management decisions from becoming driven by “popular vote.” He expressed concern that legislative intervention could set a “dangerous precedent” for managing Michigan’s natural resources.
Despite his concerns about the process, Sweeney supports allowing baiting in counties where CWD has not been detected. His position shifted due to what he perceived as inconsistencies in other regulations, such as antler point restrictions.
Critics of the ban also point to challenges with enforcement and the natural tendency of deer to congregate, which can contribute to the spread of CWD regardless of baiting restrictions. State Rep. Jennifer Wortz, R-Quincy, sponsor of the bill, noted that she and her husband recently counted over 30 deer feeding together in a single field.
What’s Next?
Wortz argued that lifting the ban could encourage more hunting and help control deer populations, which she said contribute to crop damage and increased road hazards. However, a 2003 study in Wisconsin found that baiting does not increase harvest success. Furthermore, a 2025 study from Michigan State University and the DNR indicated that deer concentrate more densely at bait sites, potentially increasing the risk of CWD transmission.
The bill, which passed in the Republican-controlled House, does not include exceptions for counties where CWD has been detected. It now moves to the Democrat-controlled state Senate for consideration. Sweeney is hopeful the DNR will present the NRC with a proposal to modify the current ban before the Senate acts. If the bill passes, he believes it could establish a concerning precedent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chronic wasting disease?
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal, contagious brain disease affecting deer, according to the source.
When was baiting banned in the Lower Peninsula?
Baiting has been banned in the Lower Peninsula since 2018, as stated in the source.
Who wants the change to come from the Natural Resources Commission?
Both the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Jim Sweeney, a hunter and lobbyist, believe the change should come from the Natural Resources Commission, according to the source.
As the bill moves to the Senate, will lawmakers prioritize scientific recommendations or respond to calls for increased hunting opportunities and perceived benefits to local communities?
