ALLOW USE OF CROSSBOWS FOR FISHING

Senate Bill 897 (as reported without amendment)

Sponsor:  Sen. Darwin L. Booher

House Committee:  Natural Resources, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation

Senate Committee:  Outdoor Recreation and Tourism

Complete to 6-6-12                                                                (Enacted as Public Act 245 of 2012)

A SUMMARY OF SENATE BILL 897 AS REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE 6-5-12

The bill would allow the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to issue an order regulating the taking of fish with a crossbow.  It amends Part 847 (Sport Fishing) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA). Part 847 currently allows the DNR to regulate the taking of fish with a spear or bow and arrow. 

Under the act, "crossbow" means a weapon consisting of a bow mounted transversely on a stock or frame and designed to fire an arrow, bolt, or quarrel by the release of a bow string that is controlled by a mechanical or electric trigger and has a working safety and a draw weight of 100 pounds or greater.

The bill would allow crossbows to be used to take fish during the same season and for the same species as is currently allowed for bow and arrow use.

MCL 324.48703

FISCAL IMPACT:

Senate Bill 897 would have no fiscal impact to the State of Michigan or local units of government.

POSITIONS:

Michigan Department of Natural Resources supports the bill. (6-5-12)

Michigan United Conservation Clubs supports the bill. (6-5-12)

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   Jeff Stoutenburg

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Viola Bay Wild

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.