Mentored Hunting Bill in Wisconsin Re-Introduced!

Please Attend the Wednesday, February 27 Hearing or
Contact the Senate Committee on Transportation and Tourism!

State Senator Robert Wirch (D-22) has re-introduced legislation, Senate Bill 529, to establish a mentored hunting program in the Badger State. This bill is one of NRA-ILA’s top legislative priorities this session.

This legislation is similar to last year’s mentored hunting bill in that it will provide first-time hunters a “try before you buy” opportunity to get the full experience of hunting before committing to a hunter education course.  The bill requires a new hunter to be accompanied by a licensed hunter who is at least 18 years of age, who is always within arms reach and only one gun will be allowed between the two of them.  This bill will also lower the hunting age in Wisconsin from 12 to 10 for individuals participating in the mentored program.  

Statistics show that states that allow hunters to start at earlier ages have a better safety record than states with higher minimum ages.  States with lower age minimums also have a higher rate of hunter participation and retention, which helps the state in wildlife conservation efforts.

This bill is part of the Families Afield Initiative, a cooperative effort between NRA, National Wild Turkey Federation, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance and National Shooting Sports Foundation. 

A public hearing will be held on Wednesday, February 27 at 9:05 AM in 300 Southeast at the State Capitol.  Please make plans to attend this hearing to show support for this important legislation.  It you are unable to attend, please contact the members of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Tourism and respectfully urge them to support SB529 to ensure Wisconsin’s hunting heritage for generations to come.

State Senator Roger Breske (D-12), Chair
(608) 266-2509
[email protected]

State Senator Jeffrey Plale (D-7), Vice-Chair
(608) 266-7505
[email protected]

State Senator Jon Erpenbach (D-27)
(608) 266-6670
[email protected]

State Senator David Hansen (D-30)
(608) 266-5670
[email protected]

State Senator Dan Kapanke (R-32)
(608) 266-5490
[email protected]

State Senator Dale Schultz (R-17)
(608) 266-0703
[email protected]

State Senator Joseph Leibham (R-9)
(608) 266-2056 
[email protected]