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Bill > S06360
NY S06360
NY S06360Clarifies provisions regarding the use of crossbows for hunting, allowing the department of environmental conservation to allow the use of crossbows for the taking of big game in any area long bows are permitted.
summary
Introduced
03/11/2025
03/11/2025
In Committee
06/11/2025
06/11/2025
Crossed Over
06/17/2025
06/17/2025
Passed
08/26/2025
08/26/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
08/26/2025
08/26/2025
Introduced Session
2025-2026 General Assembly
Bill Summary
AN ACT to amend the environmental conservation law, in relation to clarifying provisions regarding the use of crossbows for hunting
AI Summary
This bill clarifies and expands provisions regarding crossbow use for hunting in New York State. The legislation modifies the environmental conservation law to include crossbows in the definition of "long bow," which allows the Department of Environmental Conservation more flexibility in permitting crossbow use for hunting big game. The bill removes several previous technical restrictions on crossbows, such as specific bolt length and limb width requirements, and instead focuses on a minimum peak draw weight of 100 pounds. The legislation also introduces new safety provisions, such as requiring a working safety trigger and establishing distance restrictions for crossbow discharge near dwellings, schools, and other occupied structures in Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. Additionally, the bill gives other counties the option to adopt similar local restrictions. By removing previous limitations on crossbow use during hunting seasons, the bill effectively expands hunting opportunities for hunters who prefer or require using crossbows, while maintaining basic safety standards to protect public spaces and residents.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (14)
Pete Harckham (D)*,
Jake Ashby (R),
George Borrello (R),
Leroy Comrie (D),
Patrick Gallivan (R),
Pam Helming (R),
Michelle Hinchey (D),
Robert Jackson (D),
Rachel May (D),
Tom O'Mara (R),
Christopher Ryan (D),
Julia Salazar (D),
Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D),
James Skoufis (D),
Last Action
SIGNED CHAP.358 (on 08/26/2025)
Official Document
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