The House Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment Committee unanimously passed a bill lowering age requirements for big game hunters in Utah, boosting the outdoor recreation industry and exposing youths to a dose of "reality."

Currently, minors in Utah can't participate in big game hunting until they are 14 years old. HB67 would knock the requirement down to 12 years of age.

Rep. Curtis Oda, R-Clearfield, who sponsored the bill, said the change would invigorate Utah's outdoor sports industry and bring the state up to speed with the rest of the region.

"We are the only state above 12 (for big game hunting age requirements) in the Western states," Oda said.

He added that youths learn valuable lessons from hunting.

"Kids out in the field have a greater understanding of reality," Oda said. He explained that they learn about nature and the finality of death versus a video game where victims come back to life when players hit the reset button.

Rep. Glenn Donnelson, R-North Ogden, agreed that it is more beneficial for youths to be involved in hunting than passive activities such as watching TV or playing video games.

Miles Moretti, the head of the Mule Deer Association, backs the bill as a tool to ensure hunting has a future. "We are losing hunters and fishermen at an alarming rate."

Jim Karpowitz, Utah's Director of Wildlife Resources, also spoke in support of dropping the age requirement. He said the legislation would still give parents the power to choose whether or not their children were ready to hunt.

"Youth hunters have proven to be safe," Karpowitz said. He said that in 2006 there was no minimum age requirement for hunting upland game and no mishaps or accidents were reported.

Big game hunters younger than 16 would still have to deal with existing limitations: A parent or guardian would have to be within eyesight and voice range at all times.

Members of the committee touted hunting's value as family activity. "I wholeheartedly support this," Rep. Stephen Sandstrom, R-Orem said. "My 11-year-old son is one of the biggest lobbyists on this."

During the 2006 session a similar bill was passed by the House but stalled in the Senate.

HB67 now goes on to the House floor for consideration.

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