Senator Gallivan Announces New Law Will Expand the Use of Crossbows in NYS

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) announced legislation allowing for the expanded use of crossbows for hunting in New York State has been signed into law by the governor. The bill (S.6360A/A.8330A) was co-sponsored by Senator Gallivan and passed the Senate and Assembly in June. 

The legislation amends the state’s outdated environmental conservation law, permitting hunters to use crossbows in any area of the state and during any season where longbows are currently permitted.

“These changes to New York’s hunting regulations are long-overdue and are the result of strong advocacy from hunters and sportsmen organizations across the state,” Senator Gallivan said. “The law will help attract new hunters and provides new opportunities for licensed and trained hunters, especially those with physical limitations that prevent them from using traditional bows.”

Sportsmen’s organizations have long pushed for the changes and say crossbows are preferred by a growing number of hunters looking for an alternative to traditional hunting implements. The Department of Environmental Conservation has also supported the use of crossbows as a tool for wildlife management and to retain and recruit hunters in New York. 

The bill amends environmental conservation law to eliminate obsolete restrictions on crossbow equipment, such as size and weight, and to better align with current crossbow design.  Hunters say many of the models on the market today do not meet the state’s existing regulations.

The new law takes effect immediately.

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