The state is considering expanding options for crossbow hunting.

Michigan's Natural Resources Commission was scheduled to meet Friday to begin discussing expanded opportunities to hunt with the crossbow.

Restrictions were loosened this year to allow hunters 12 years and older in southern Michigan to hunt deer during any season with crossbows.

In the rest of the state, hunters must be at least 50 years old to use crossbows during the archery season, but younger hunters can use crossbows during firearm season.

The commission is considering options including a crossbow deer season and a minimum age for crossbow use without a permit.