Take Action Today! Michigan members should contact their state senator and ask them to vote YES on House Bill 5711. Michigan sportsmen and women can contact their state senator by using the Sportsmen’s Alliance Legislative Action Center.
Michigan legislation that will expand access to public lands allowing younger hunters to harvest deer, bear and elk was reported favorably out of the Senate Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Committee on Nov. 28. The bill, introduced by Rep. Triston Cole (R-Antrim County), will permit Michigan youth, ages 10 and older, to hunt these species on public land.
Under current law, a person must be at least 14 to hunt these game species on public land. Those under the age of 14 may only hunt deer, bear or elk on private land. The bill will now head to the Senate Floor for a full vote.
Many youth are involved multiple extracurricular activities, which makes it hard for them to try hunting. Access to quality hunting areas is crucial in maintaining hunter participation. By allowing parents to take their child hunting on public land for big game such as deer, bear or elk, House Bill 5711 will make it easier for parents to get their children more involved in hunting. More importantly, HB 5711 will help in the retention of these new young hunters.
“HB 5711 is a great move for Michigan and will expand the opportunities for young hunters to enjoy big game hunting by providing greater access to quality hunting grounds,” said Luke Houghton associate director of state services for Sportsmen’s Alliance.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.