The Michigan Senate today approved state Rep. Ken Borton’s plan to allow recreational wildlife and bird feeding at Michigan homes.

“In beautiful Northern Michigan, we love the open air and the great outdoors, including the deer, elk, bears and birds that make their homes in the region,” said Borton, of Gaylord. “People should be able to do something as simple as feeding animals without retaliation from the government, and my plan will protect residents just hoping to enjoy nature.”

Borton’s House Bill 4088 would let residents feed wild animals recreationally regardless of any policy issued by the Natural Resources Commission. Under the plan, wildlife and bird feeding would be allowed under three conditions:

• Feed must be placed either to view animals recreationally or to prevent them from starvation;
• The feed must be located within 300 feet of a residence; and
• Not more than 2 gallons of feed may be placed, scattered or distributed at one time.

HB 4088 earned bipartisan support in the House of Representatives in May, and now advances to the governor for her consideration.