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SD 1103

An Act relative to the use of crossbows in hunting

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ryan Fattman and 1 co-sponsor

Bill permits crossbow use in Massachusetts hunting, expanding legal hunting methods to include crossbows alongside firearms and traditional bows.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1103

Legislative bill overview

SD 1103 would expand hunting regulations in Massachusetts to permit the use of crossbows during hunting seasons. Currently, Massachusetts hunting law does not explicitly authorize crossbow use, restricting hunters primarily to firearms and traditional bows. This bill seeks to add crossbows as a legal hunting tool, likely requiring hunters to comply with existing safety and licensing requirements.

Why is this important

Crossbows represent a middle ground between firearms and traditional archery—they require less upper body strength and training than compound bows, potentially broadening hunting participation among older adults, people with physical limitations, and newer hunters. The change would align Massachusetts with many neighboring states that already permit crossbow hunting, affecting approximately 70,000+ licensed hunters in the state and their access to hunting methods.

Potential points of contention

  • Animal welfare concerns: Opponents may argue crossbows could injure rather than kill game cleanly if used by untrained hunters, or that broader access increases wounding rates
  • Hunter safety standards: Debates over whether crossbow training and licensing requirements would be equivalent to firearms training, and whether operators adequately understand backstop safety and projectile distances
  • Conservation impact: Questions about whether expanded hunting methods could affect deer populations or other game species management targets that currently rely on traditional harvest methods

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

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