LANSING – State Representative Kate Ebli (D-Monroe) today announced that a plan to create an early firearm deer season for disabled veterans has been approved by the House Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources Committee. The plan – which creates a pilot program allowing disabled veterans to participate in a special two-day hunting season at the end of September – now heads to the full House floor.
"November weather in Michigan is notoriously difficult to predict and can present challenges to hunters with disabilities," said Ebli, who is Vice-Chair of the House Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources Committee and Chair of the Tourism Promotion Subcommittee. "Allowing disabled veterans to take part in a two-day hunting season at the end of September would expand recreational opportunities for the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country's freedom. Creating this pilot program is just one way we can express our gratitude to the servicemen and women who have fought so bravely to protect us. This pilot program would put Michigan at the forefront in this country when it comes to hunting accessibility for disabled veterans."
Disabled veterans with hunting licenses currently participate in the regular deer hunting season in November. Under this plan, disabled veterans could take part in a two-day hunting season that coincides with the special youth hunting season, which typically comes at the end of September.
"Hunters are a vital part of our state's economy," Ebli said. "By doing everything we can to increase hunter participation, this plan benefits disabled veterans while providing a boost to our state's economy at the same time. Passing this legislation is simply the right thing to do."