ALBANY, N.Y.— Legislation sponsored by David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) allowing crossbows to be used during hunting season was signed into law by Governor David Paterson.

"Expanding New York’s hunting regulations to include crossbows will expand Upstate’s economic opportunities,” said Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida). “It will provide increased revenue to the state and our local communities through licensing and will also draw in out of state hunters looking to experience hunting in New York.”

The law will be named in honor of Syracuse sportsmen Robert Ripberger who recently passed away. Ripberger was a distinguished citizen, sportsmen, and devoted member of his community. He was instrumental in establishing New York’s regular bow hunting season and worked vigorously to see crossbow hunting become a reality in New York.

Former law stipulated hunting with a crossbow was not permitted unless under very limited conditions where an individual is almost completely physically disabled. The new law will allow anyone to hunt with the weapon during regular big game season when most firearms are in use.

According to the bill, hunters will be able to use their regular gun season tags, and their muzzleloader tags in coordination with crossbow hunting.

The law will go into effect on October 1 of this year. New York will be joining states like Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio who allow for the use of crossbows during hunting seasons.

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