82R8836 BPG-D
By: Hunter H.C.R. No. 98
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Air-powered guns have become increasingly popular
among adults due to a variety of technological advancements, but
Texas law does not contain provisions that specifically address
their use; and
WHEREAS, Dating back to at least the 16th century,
air-powered guns were used on the 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark
expedition; however, in recent times, most air rifles have been BB
and pellet guns designed for youth; the development of more
powerful and accurate air rifles has continued apace since the
mid-1970s, and today, "magnum" hunting rifles with a range of 30 to
50 yards are popular for hunting small game such as squirrel and
rabbit, while the highest powered rifles carry the foot-pounds of
energy necessary to take down large game; air gun shooting is
actively promoted by the National Rifle Association; and
WHEREAS, With demand for these modern air rifles growing, a
number of states have enacted laws regarding their use; for
instance, Wisconsin outlaws them for the hunting of deer, bear, or
game birds, while in Maryland, they may not be used to hunt turkeys
in the spring season or waterfowl and must generate a muzzle energy
of at least 1,200 foot-pounds to be legal for deer and bear hunting;
Missouri recently added a section to the state's game laws that
specifically addresses the use of big-bore air guns for deer
hunting, requiring a minimum of .40 caliber; and
WHEREAS, The rising prevalence of high-powered air rifles may
necessitate the enactment of appropriate regulations within the
Lone Star State to maintain the vitality of the hunting industry and
to protect public safety; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 82nd Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby request the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house
of representatives to create a joint interim committee to study the
safe and effective use of high-powered air rifles, including such
issues as hunter safety and which types of rifles are capable of
making clean and ethical kills of larger game such as deer and
buffalo; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the committee submit a full report, including
findings and recommendations, to the 83rd Texas Legislature when it
convenes in January 2013.