Under existing law, the state Conservation Commission may suspend the hunting privileges of any hunter who causes an accidental death for up to five years. Legislation by Senate Majority Leader Tom Dempsey would double that to 10 years.

Dempsey, a Republican from St. Charles, says the longer suspensions are needed so that hunters understand the seriousness of killing someone, even if it is an accident.

Dempsey said a constituent asked him to seek the tougher penalty after her husband was accidentally shot and killed in 2008 while hunting turkey with a friend.

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Online: SB760

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