Bill > SB449

This bill modifies Maryland's hunting regulations to specifically allow licensed bow hunters in Frederick and Washington Counties to openly carry handguns during deer hunting season under certain conditions. The bill defines a handgun as a firearm with a barrel length not exceeding 6 inches and without a scope or electronic device attached. To be eligible, bow hunters must be at least 21 years old and carry the handgun solely for personal protection, with the strict limitation that they cannot use the handgun to kill wildlife already wounded by a vertical bow or crossbow. This provision is an exception to the Department of Natural Resources' general authority to regulate hunting weapons and ammunition. The bill expands on existing regulations that permit handgun carrying, focusing specifically on these two counties during deer hunting season. The new regulation will take effect on July 1, 2025, and the Department of Natural Resources is required to make these updated regulations available when distributing hunting licenses.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

Frederick County Senators

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0449?ys=2025RS