(LANSING) - The Michigan House has approved legislation that would restore deer baiting and feeding in the Lower Peninsula, advancing a plan championed by State Rep. Jennifer Wortz.
House Bill 4445 would roll back a 2019 ban imposed by the Michigan Natural Resources Commission, allowing hunters once again to use bait as a deer management tool. Supporters say the move is needed to address Michigan's growing deer population, estimated at about 2 million statewide, and to reduce deer-related vehicle crashes and agricultural damage.
Wortz argues the existing ban has failed to stop the spread of diseases such as chronic wasting disease and bovine tuberculosis, noting that deer naturally congregate regardless of baiting restrictions.
Backers of the bill say restoring baiting could increase hunter participation and improve harvest success, helping better manage herd size across the Lower Peninsula.
The legislation now moves to the Michigan Senate for further consideration.