New York hunters are buzzing with excitement after the state legislature passed a groundbreaking bill that could transform big game hunting across the state. On June 17, 2025, the New York State Assembly unanimously approved legislation allowing crossbows to be used wherever longbows are permitted, marking a significant shift in hunting regulations. The Senate had already shown strong support, passing the bill (S06360A) on June 11 with an overwhelming 57-2 vote. Now, the bill sits on Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk, awaiting her signature to become law. If signed within the 30-day window, hunters could be gearing up to use crossbows for deer and bear as early as this fall.
The journey to this point has been a long one for advocates like Roy Dust, president of the New York Crossbow Coalition (NYCC). Dust, a passionate hunter himself, had nearly lost hope after years of pushing for crossbow legislation. “When it finally came through, I thought someone was pulling my leg,” he said, reflecting on the moment he learned of the bill’s passage. The NYCC has been a driving force behind the legislation, rallying hunters across the state to contact lawmakers and make their voices heard. Dust credits the grassroots efforts of everyday sportsmen for the bill’s success, noting that legislators reported receiving thousands of calls in support of the measure.
The bill’s approval is a bittersweet victory for the NYCC, as it comes after the loss of the organization’s founder, Rich McDermott, who, along with his wife, tragically died in a car accident in Albion in 2023. McDermott was the heart of the coalition, laying the groundwork for this moment through years of tireless advocacy. “He made the contacts, put in the time, and kept the momentum going,” Dust said. “We were just trying to pick up the pieces and carry it forward. We got lucky.” The passage of this bill feels like a tribute to McDermott’s legacy, even though he isn’t here to witness it.
So, what exactly does this bill mean for hunters? The legislation brings several key changes to New York’s hunting regulations. First, it allows crossbows to be used in any area where longbows are already permitted, leveling the playing field for hunters who prefer the crossbow’s ease of use and precision. To use a crossbow, hunters will need to complete a NYS Bowhunting Education Course, ensuring they’re well-versed in safe and responsible hunting practices. The bill also removes outdated restrictions on draw weight and width, giving hunters more flexibility in choosing their equipment. Additionally, it introduces a 500-foot discharge setback for Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties, addressing safety concerns in more densely populated areas.
For many hunters, this bill is a long-overdue step forward. Crossbows offer a practical alternative to traditional bows, especially for those who may struggle with the physical demands of drawing a longbow. They’re easier to aim and require less upper body strength, making hunting more accessible to a wider range of people, including older sportsmen or those with physical limitations. Dust believes this inclusivity is a major reason why the bill garnered such strong bipartisan support in the legislature.
Governor Hochul’s decision is the final hurdle. Dust is optimistic, pointing to her past support for crossbow hunting in budget proposals as a positive sign. “With the legislature’s near-unanimous backing, I don’t think she’ll refuse to sign it,” he said. If Hochul gives her approval, the new rules could take effect just in time for the fall hunting season, giving hunters a new tool to pursue deer and bear across New York’s forests and fields.
The bill’s passage reflects a growing acceptance of crossbows as a legitimate and effective hunting tool. For years, debates over crossbows have stirred controversy among hunters, with some arguing they give an unfair advantage, while others see them as a practical evolution of archery. The NYCC’s efforts, combined with overwhelming legislative support, suggest that the tide has turned in favor of crossbow advocates. The thousands of calls to lawmakers show that hunters across the state are ready for this change.
As the hunting community waits for Hochul’s decision, there’s a sense of anticipation and hope. For Dust and others who’ve fought for this moment, it’s more than just a policy change—it’s a chance to honor the legacy of those like McDermott who paved the way. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or someone looking to get into the sport, this bill could open new doors to experiencing New York’s rich hunting traditions. If signed into law, it might just be the start of a new era for the state’s sportsmen.
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