Hunting has always been a favorite tradition and pastime of many Southwest Michigan families. With an abundance of game animals and birds, Michigan attracts more hunters than any other state because our great outdoors offer something to interest every hunter.

Our rich hunting heritage plays a vital role in Michigan’s economy and way of life, and I will continue to protect your hunting rights.

I was proud to support recent legislation to help protect hunting rights and traditions.

The Michigan Senate has unanimously approved Senate Bills 54 and 55, which would ban using unmanned aerial vehicles – often called “drones” – to hunt and also prohibit the use of drones to harass hunters and disturb wildlife.

These proposals are supported by Michigan sportsmen groups who are interested in “fair chase” policies and are concerned with what some special interest organizations may do to advance their anti-hunting agenda.

Other states like Alaska, Montana and Colorado have already taken steps to stop drone-assisted hunting. This issue unites animal rights groups and hunters who view drone hunting as either cruel or cheating.

The Michigan United Conservation Club, a 40,000 member, outdoor heritage group, has long pushed for this type of legislation in order to maintain fair chase and ethical hunting practices in our state.

Locating wildlife by using remote-controlled, camera-equipped aircraft is not a fair hunting practice. The Senate bills will help protect the integrity of Michigan hunting tradition and also protect Southwest Michigan sportsmen and women.

One concern is that some animal rights groups have talked about buying drones to “stalk hunters.” I believe such a plan is unsafe and an attack on the hunting rights of citizens.

There is broad support for this legislation to help protect the hunting tradition of many Southwest Michigan families for generations to come, and I am hopeful that these protections will be in place in time for Michigan’s popular deer and duck hunting seasons this fall.

 

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents Southwest Michigan.