Senate votes to lower hunting age to 10

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Senate has approved lowering the state's hunting age to 10.

Right now children must be at least 12 years old to hunt. Democrats introduced a bill that would allow children to hunt with firearms beginning at age 10 if they're accompanied by a mentor within arm's reach.

Supporters say the age change will maintain interest in hunting in Wisconsin for years to come. Critics call it an accident waiting to happen because children so young are not mature enough to handle guns.

The Senate approved the measure 27-6. It now goes to the Assembly.