Extends the authority of the department of environmental conservation to adopt regulations for hunting in the northern zone

This bill extends the Department of Environmental Conservation's authority to set hunting regulations in the northern zone until December 31, 2027. Under the new rules, the department can establish special muzzle-loading firearm seasons for deer that last up to fourteen days before or after the regular season, with a maximum total duration of sixteen days. These special seasons may allow hunting of deer of any sex, only antlerless deer, or only male deer, and participants may be required to obtain a special permit. The department must also consider herd conditions and the interests of communities, property owners, and hunters when creating these regulations.