Law To Allow Hunting, Fishing License For Kids Causing Debate

LANSING (WWJ) - Testimony will begin this Tuesday in Lansing on a proposal that would allow a hunting license to be issued to a child under the age of ten, albeit under certain conditions.
   
Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Rodney Stokes said sales for hunting and fishing licenses have been down about one percent each year for the last decade.

"This is something that other states are experiencing also, but we want to make sure we reverse that trend, because those hunting and fishing licenses help us maintain and manage the natural resources of this state," Stokes explained.

A license for a youth would be $7.50. Supporters of the law explain that children would not be allowed in the woods alone and could only hunt if they comply with requirements of a safety program.

Currently, there are 31 other states that do not have a minimum hunting age.