BOSTON – Today, the Massachusetts Senate passed Senate Bill 2249, An Act relative to the use of crossbows in hunting. The bill, filed by Senator Anne M. Gobi (D-Spencer), aims to expand the eligibility for crossbow hunting.
Current hunting laws only allow the use of crossbows for individuals with documented medical disabilities. Under this legislation, Massachusetts would join 32 other states that currently allow crossbow hunting for non-disabled individuals.
Sen. Don Humason (R-Westfield) (WNG File Photo)
“I appreciate the support for moving this forward,” said Senator Gobi. “Crossbows have been used for years and this commonsense change will allow sportsmen, who have been unable to hunt, due in part to father time, get back outdoors and do what they love.”
“In recent years, interest in crossbow hunting has grown as the technology has become more user-friendly and safe,” said Senator Donald F. Humason, Jr (R-Westfield). “I have long worked alongside the hunting community in Western Massachusetts to move this legislation forward so I am very happy the proposal has received the approval of the Senate.”
“Central Massachusetts has a robust hunting community,” said Senate President Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester). “Crossbow hunting is an accessible option for hunters across Massachusetts, and I am happy that the Senate has opened this opportunity.”
Significant technological and safety improvements have increased the popularity and use of crossbows as a hunting device. Lifting the prohibition on crossbows would open up hunting to individuals who lack the ability or strength to pull back a traditional bow and arrow, yet who do not have a documented medical disability.
