House Committee Approves Bill to Allow Hunting with Handguns

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A bill that would allow adult hunters in South Dakota to use handguns to shoot game birds is headed to the House floor.

The Capital Journal reports the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee approved the bill 10-3 this week.

Bill sponsor Representative Dick Werner testified that the bill would allow sportsmen with shoulder injuries to continue hunting.

Tony Leif is the wildlife division chief for the Game, Fish and Parks Department. Leif testified against the measure, saying that handguns aren't as safe as long guns for bird hunting.

Werner says safety is ultimately up to the person carrying the gun.

The committee approved an amendment to the bill that would only allow hunters over the age of 18 to hunt with handguns.

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