FAIRFAX, VA-- In an historic victory, the National Rifle Association is pleased to announce that the Michigan Senate voted 22-15 to establish the first dove hunting season in state history. This triumph for sportsmen and hunters follows the overwhelming support of similar legislation in the Michigan House of Representatives last November.
"This is a significant moment for hunters, sporting enthusiasts and NRA members across the state," said Chris W. Cox, NRA`s chief lobbyist. "Establishing a mourning dove season in Michigan is a tremendous victory for the great American hunting tradition. Thanks to the strong bi-partisan support of this legislation, sportsmen and sportswomen will finally have the opportunity to hunt dove in Michigan."
After concurrence in the House, HB 5029 heads to the Governor Granholm`s desk. If signed into law, Michigan will become the 40th state with an established dove hunting season.
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The National Rifle Association is the nation`s leader in protecting the right to hunt for all law-abiding Americans. Along with approximately 17 million American hunters and many national conservation organizations, NRA is working to preserve the American hunting tradition for future generations. Hunters and sportsmen play a pivotal role in America`s economy and society, and have been leaders in promoting wildlife management and conservation. Since 1939, hunters and shooters have paid over $4 billion in excise taxes on sporting equipment. Hunters and fishermen fund nearly 75% of the annual income for all 50 state conservation agencies. And, hunters contribute $21 billion to the American economy each year.