URGENT ALERT: Wisconsin Mentored Hunting Bill Needs Immediate Action!

Please Contact State Senator Russell Decker (D-29) Today! 

Time is running out on Wisconsin’s 2008 legislative session and it is vital that Senate Bill 529 (mentored hunting) be heard tomorrow, Tuesday, March 11, in the State Senate so that the Assembly will have time to consider the bill on Wednesday, March 12.

Sponsored by State Senator Robert Wirch (D-22), SB529 would establish a mentored hunting program in the Badger State.  This legislation is similar to last year’s mentored hunting bill in that it would provide first-time hunters a “try before you buy” opportunity to get the full experience of hunting before committing to a hunter education course.  SB529 would require 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 firearm 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 hunting program.  

Statistics show that states that allow hunters to start at earlier ages have a better safety record than states with higher minimum ages.  SB529 would ensure Wisconsin’s hunting tradition for generations to come, as states with lower age minimums also have a higher rate of hunter participation and retention, which helps the state in wildlife conservation efforts.

SB529 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. 

Please contact the Senate Majority Leader, State Senator Russell Decker (D-29), IMMEDIATELY and respectfully encourage him to schedule SB529 for a fair up or down vote.  Senator Decker can be reached by phone in Madison at (608) 266-2502, in his district at (715) 359-8739, or email [email protected].