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.
Under Michigan’s current law, only shotguns, muzzle loaders, and certain pistols can be used during firearm deer season in the shotgun zone. However, according to the ammunition manufacturers’ specifications, the rifles and ammunition proposed to be added to the shotgun zone have less power, some 40-50% less, and also have less muzzle and 100 yard velocity than the shotguns and in-line muzzle loaders presently allowed in the zone.
HB 4283 was referred to the Senate Committee on Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, however no date has been set for a hearing and it is unlikely this bill will see action in the Senate before the legislature adjourns for the summer in mid-June.
MUCC members passed a resolution at convention in 2010 asking for these changes to be made and MUCC has supported these bills through the process. This is another great example of MUCC members and MUCC’s policy setting process having a direct impact in our legislature.
