Bill Allowing Certain Rifles in Shotgun Zone Moves to Senate

GW:  This bill died last year but should make it through this time around.  Perception can be altered through education, if substantive resistance from the public becomes an issue.  From the MUCC…

Hunters and shooting sports enthusiasts are one step closer to seeing the ability to use a rifle loaded with straight walled pistol cartridges in Michigan’s shotgun zone during the firearm deer season.

In recent weeks, Michigan’s House of Representatives passed HB 4283, sponsored by Rep. Matt Lori (R-Constantine), which would allow a number of certain cartridges to be used in rifles in Michigan’s southern limited firearms area, more commonly called the “shotgun zone” during the firearm deer season. The measure seeks to bring Michigan in line with surrounding states like Indiana, and could potentially get more women and youth participating in firearm season in the shotgun zone. Read more

No Straight-Wall Rifle Cartridges in Zone III This Year

By Glen Wunderlich

After having the chance to participate in the legislative process on behalf of House Bill 5249 and giving testimony in its support, I really thought the bill would pass this year.  Being able to use straight-wall cartridges in rifles in the southern “shotgun” zone seemed to be a  no-brainer.  I know I am with thousands of ethical sportsmen who are disappointed in the news, but here is the latest status direct from Matt Lori’s (R-District 59) office based on my request for information:

Dear Mr. Wunderlich,
Thank you for your email to Representative Lori, which will be drawn to his attention.
 At this late stage in the Legislative Session, it does not seem likely that the Senate is going to move the bill forward.  The bill is not on the most recent agenda for the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism’s next meeting.  Without that movement forward it is unlikely that the bill will be back to the House for a final vote during “lame duck”.

 Representative Lori very much appreciates your support, and will likely re-introduce the bill next year.
 Sincerely
Susan Martin Chief of Staff District 59

1-877-262-5959

HB 5249 Passes House Vote, Moves to Senate

Michigan House Bill 5249 that would allow the use of certain specific rifles during the regular firearm deer season in the area that is currently restricted to only shotguns, muzzleloaders, and certain types of pistols has passed a House vote and has been referred to committee of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism.  From there the bill heads to the Senate, and if passed, to Governor Snyder for signature.

To date there has been little resistance to the notion of using relatively low-powered, straight-wall centerfire rifles in Zone III.  When compared to modern shotguns and modern in-line muzzleloaders, this “new” brand of caliber pales.  Once again, Republican leadership is on the verge of restoring some of our lost rights, which were originally taken from us on strictly arbitrary reasons based on misconceptions. Read more

Straight-wall Cartridge Bill Moves Forward

GW:  Good to see this common-sense legislation moving forward.  There are sure to be more adequately suited firearms available to youngsters and old timers alike, thus aiding in deer hunting participation.

House Bill 5249 – Passed by House Sep 27th: The bill would allow the use of certain specific rifles during the regular firearm deer season in the area that is currently restricted to only shotguns, muzzleloaders, and certain types of pistols. Read more

Easing Restrictions on Michigan Deer Hunters

By   Glen Wunderlich

When State House Representative Matt Lori (R – District 59) called me about my position on HB 5249 – a bill that would make certain straight-wall cartridges legal for deer hunting in Michigan’s southern zone –   I was pleasantly surprised.  For those of you not familiar with the proposed legislation, here it is:  It would allow a .35 caliber or larger rifle loaded with straight-wall cartridges of a minimum case length of 1.16 and a maximum case length of 1.8 inches in Zone III (shotgun zone.)  I had written that the legislation should have been amended to allow all straight-wall cartridges – an argument based on ballistics. Read more

Straight Wall Rifle Cartridges in Southern Michigan

A bill that would allow .35 caliber or larger straight-wall cartridges with a minimum case length of 1.16 to a maximum of 1.8 inches is on the move after being voted out of committee.  House bill 5249 sponsored by State Representative Matt Lori of District 59 is evidence that common sense is alive and well.

The bill now moves to the House floor, where it is expected to pass.  Then onto the Senate’s committee and to the Senate, along with any amendments to be negotiated.

I have it on good word that the bill should fly through the House.