State Representative Dave Prestin (R-Cedar River) has unveiled new legislation aimed at improving the personal safety of Michigans bow hunters by expanding their right to carry firearms in the field. Under the current framework of Michigan law, bow hunters may carry a pistol during archery season only if they possess a valid Concealed Pistol License (CPL), regardless of whether the handgun is carried openly or concealed. Prestins proposal would remove this CPL requirement entirely, allowing any law-abiding gun owner who is not prohibited from firearm possession to carry a pistol for self-defense while bow hunting. Prestins bill is driven by growing concern over encounters between hunters and dangerous wildlife, as well as incidents where hunters found themselves unable to defend against animal attacks. He referenced a serious case from the prior season, when a young hunter in Michigans Northern Lower Peninsula was attacked by a black bear protecting her cubs. Despite his efforts to fight the bear off, he sustained severe injuries requiring 40 stitches to his leg. The hunter had no firearm available for defense. Hunters can face many dangers in the woods, especially from close encounters with predator species like bears, wolves, and cougar, Prestin explained. Bow hunters are very limited in their ability to respond if one of these animals becomes aggressive and decides to attack them. The bill proposes amending the states Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) to permit lawful pistol possession during archery seasons without the need for a CPL. If passed, hunters would be able to carry a sidearm either openly or concealed strictly for personal protection. This change would bring Michigan into closer alignment with other states that already recognize the right to carry a firearm for defense while hunting, regardless of concealed carry licensing status. Supporters of the legislation argue that it represents a practical update to outdated regulations and ensures that hunters are not forced to choose between compliance with the law and their personal safety. They point out that bow hunters often traverse remote areas far from immediate assistance, where encounters with predators or aggressive trespassers can be life-threatening. They also argue that CPL requirements impose an additional financial and administrative burden on hunters who may only wish to carry during a limited season, as obtaining a CPL can involve fees, background checks, and mandatory training. Critics of the proposal, however, warn that expanding the right to carry pistols without a CPL could complicate enforcement efforts and create opportunities for misuse. Some have expressed concern about the potential for accidental discharges in the field, especially among hunters without formal pistol training. Others argue that introducing firearms into more hunting scenarios could raise the risk of poaching or alter the spirit of archery-only seasons, which traditionally emphasize skill and challenge. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is expected to review the legislation and may recommend updates to hunter safety education materials if the bill becomes law. Possible updates include adding specific guidance on pistol handling, storage, and safe engagement distances when hunting with both bows and sidearms. Law enforcement agencies may also develop new protocols for game wardens to verify lawful possession and ensure compliance with other hunting regulations. The proposal will head to committee for hearings in the upcoming legislative session. If passed out of committee, it will proceed to a floor vote where it is likely to attract debate from both sides of the aisle. The bills progress could set the stage for broader conversations about reconciling public safety concerns with the right to self-defense in outdoor environments.