Whereas, In many Michigan homes and communities, hunting holds deep cultural significance; and
Whereas, November 15 was established as opening day of firearms deer season in 1925. While it proceeded to move around the fall calendar several times, it was returned to the traditional date in 1968, prompting pilgrimages to deer camps, hunting properties, stands, blinds, farms, and forests every year; and
Whereas, Opening day of firearms deer season has been a day of community, family, tradition, and bonding for Michigan deer hunters. It has become so ingrained in local customs and tradition that some schools and businesses in the state of Michigan close in observance of this annual rite; and
Whereas, Wildlife management would be an insurmountable problem in Michigan, were it not for hunters; and
Whereas, Groups throughout Michigan, such as the Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger and the Hunters Feeding Michigan program, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Feeding America, allow for generous hunters to donate a portion of their harvest to families in need. These programs and those who participate in them demonstrate the positive impact hunters have in communities throughout the state; and
Whereas, Hunting supports more than 135,000 Michigan jobs annually, and has an estimated 8.9-billion-dollar positive impact on our state’s economy each year; and
Whereas, Acknowledgement and appreciation are due to the men and women who, through their passion for the time-honored tradition of hunting, have had an immensely positive impact on the lives of their families and communities, statewide wildlife management, and our economy; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare November 15, 2025, as Hunting Heritage Day in the state of Michigan. We support Michigan hunting culture and tradition as cherished and beneficial cornerstones of our Michigan identity.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
