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S 577

An Act relative to the use of crossbows in hunting

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donnie Berthiaume and 6 co-sponsors

S 577 legalizes crossbow hunting in Massachusetts, expanding permitted weapons and potentially increasing hunter participation among diverse demographics.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 577

Legislative bill overview

S 577 authorizes the use of crossbows as a legal hunting method in Massachusetts, expanding permitted hunting equipment beyond traditional firearms and bows. The bill has advanced through the Environment and Natural Resources Committee with a favorable recommendation and is currently under review by the Senate Ways and Means Committee.

Why is this important

Crossbow regulations directly affect hunting access and participation rates. Expanding legal hunting methods can broaden the hunting population—particularly benefiting older hunters, individuals with physical limitations, and new participants who may find crossbows more accessible than compound bows. Conversely, wildlife management officials must evaluate whether additional hunting methods impact game populations and ecosystem balance.

Potential points of contention

  • Wildlife population impacts: Whether crossbows will meaningfully increase harvest rates for deer and other game species, potentially requiring adjusted bag limits or season structures
  • Hunter safety and accident rates: Crossbow regulations around minimum draw weight, safety mechanisms, and training requirements compared to other weapons
  • Equity and access concerns: Whether allowing crossbows advantages certain hunters (those with physical limitations vs. younger, more athletic hunters) and how this aligns with hunting tradition and fairness

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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