Natural resources: fishing; illegal taking of sturgeon; revise penalty for. Amends sec. 48738 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.48738).

Michigan House Bill 6409 seeks to increase penalties for individuals who illegally take or possess sturgeon, a protected fish species. Specifically, the bill proposes raising the maximum fine from $2,000 to $5,000 and extending the maximum imprisonment period from 180 days to 365 days for such violations. Additionally, the bill mandates the revocation of fishing licenses for individuals convicted under these provisions, prohibiting them from obtaining a license for the remainder of the current year and the next three consecutive years. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/MI/text/HB6409/2025?utm_source=openai))

MI HB6409 is a house bill in the Michigan 103rd Legislature, sponsored by Cam Cavitt (R), currently “Introduced” since September 24, 2026.

We track 4,230 Michigan bills this session, 30 of them sponsored by Cam Cavitt.

Conservation groups and environmental advocates have praised HB 6409 for its stricter penalties, viewing it as a necessary step to protect the dwindling sturgeon population in Michigan's waters. They argue that the increased fines and extended imprisonment periods will serve as a stronger deterrent against illegal fishing activities targeting this species.

Some local fishermen and small-scale fishers have expressed concern over HB 6409, fearing that the heightened penalties may disproportionately affect them. They argue that the bill could lead to harsher consequences for minor infractions, potentially impacting their livelihoods and daily activities.