TITLE: Requesting the lieutenant governor and the speaker to create a joint interim committee to study the safe and effective use of high-powered air rifles.

SUMMARY: Requesting the lieutenant governor and the speaker to create a joint interim committee to study the safe and effective use of high-powered air rifles.

FULL TEXT:
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.