Syracuse.com - Bill expanding use of crossbows in Cortland County this fall passes Senate

HuntingNY-News · May 7, 2012

The bill amends section 11-0907 of the environmental conservation law to add Cortland County to the list of counties taking part in the experimental crossbow season that expires Dec. 31. If approved, it would allow use a crossbow during the regular firearms season to hunt deer and bear this fall.

The following is a press release from Sen. James L. Seward's office:

Cortland County sportsmen and women will be allowed to use a crossbow while hunting deer or bear during the regular big game season under legislation (S.6705) passed by the senate, Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I–Oneonta) said today.

“Cortland County was inadvertently left out when legislation permitting the use of a crossbow for big game hunting received approval in 2011. This legislation rectifies the situation,” said Senator Seward. “Local sportsmen and women, along with the Cortland County Legislature, support the change and I am pleased to facilitate the request.”

The bill amends section 11-0907 of the environmental conservation law to add Cortland County to the list of counties taking part in the experimental crossbow season that expires December 31, 2012. If crossbow authorization is extended the bill would expire January 1, 2014.

“Cortland County hunters were added to the list of those eligible to use rifles for big-game hunting in 2011 and experienced a safe and productive season. Allowing the use of crossbows will allow Cortland County to keep step with other counties while providing new opportunities for a variety of hunters including seniors and the disabled,” Seward concluded.

The bill has been sent to the assembly where Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton is the prime sponsor.

(Editor's note: Currently, Cortland County stands alone in its ban on crossbows during the regular firearms season, during which big game hunters (deer/bear) hunters are allowed to use them elsewhere. The use of crossbows is only allowed in Cortland County during the muzzleloading season, which comes afterward.)

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog