Bill > S00218

This bill authorizes the use of crossbows for hunting wildlife in New York State, making several key amendments to existing environmental conservation laws. The legislation removes previous restrictions that prohibited 12-13 year olds and hunters in general from using crossbows, and expands the legal methods for taking wildlife. Specifically, the bill modifies regulations to allow crossbows for hunting various game, including deer, bear, small game, and upland game birds, with some technical specifications for crossbow equipment such as requiring a minimum 14-inch arrow, a 100-pound peak draw weight, and a 24-inch overall length. The bill also mandates that crossbow hunters, like longbow hunters, must possess a current bowhunting privilege or a valid certificate in responsible bowhunting practices. Additionally, the legislation empowers the state's environmental conservation department to adopt specific regulations regarding crossbow hunting, which will be published annually in the hunting syllabus. The changes effectively integrate crossbows as a standard hunting method alongside traditional firearms and longbows, with provisions to ensure safe and responsible use across different hunting scenarios and age groups.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S218