Holland Reporter

Michigan guitarist and sportsman Ted Nugent is scheduled to testify on Wednesday at a joint committee hearing concerning the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The hearing will be conducted by three committees: the Natural Resources & Tourism Committee chaired by Rep. David Martin, the Agriculture and Rural Development and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee chaired by Rep. Ken Borton, and the Weaponization of State Government Oversight Subcommittee chaired by Rep. Angela Rigas.

Nugent's testimony will address accountability issues related to the DNR and present information on alleged recent abuses. According to Rep. Borton, who has had previous disputes with the DNR over wildlife regulations, "Michigan residents entrust their government with their tax dollars, hoping they’ll be used in good faith to govern responsibly and keep them safe." He criticized what he views as an inappropriate use of enforcement power against citizens.

Two weeks prior, testimonies were given regarding the DNR's Invasive Species Order, which affected pig farmers and game ranch owners. The order led to actions such as infiltration of farms by undercover agents and forced slaughtering of pigs that resembled Russian boars.

Rep. Rigas also expressed concerns after her subcommittee heard from an animal welfare group involved in legal action against the DNR for attempting to rescue starving deer. "It’s baffling to me that this is what our government is doing with our tax dollars," she said.

Rep. Martin voiced similar sentiments about the impact of these actions on Michigan tourism: “As chair of the Natural Resources and Tourism Committee, I want everyone...to explore our state.” He noted how these enforcement practices might deter visitors due to excessive fines.

Nugent's testimony is anticipated at 10:30 a.m., available online or in-person at Room 352 of the State Capitol Building.