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.