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SB 419

HUNTERS/HUNTING: Provides for use of pre-charged pneumatic devices to take deer during primitive firearm season. (8/1/26)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Caleb Kleinpeter

Louisiana SB 419 allows pre-charged pneumatic devices for deer during the primitive firearms season, under new Commission rules defining weapon specs and season parameters.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 509.
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Bill Summary · SB 419

Summary of Louisiana SB 419 (2026 Regular Session)

Purpose and intent

  • SB 419 amends Louisiana law to authorize the use of pre-charged pneumatic devices (PCDs) for taking deer during the state’s primitive firearms deer season, under rules set by the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission.
  • Effective date: August 1, 2026.

Key provisions and changes

  • The bill preserves the existing framework giving the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission authority to establish a special deer season for primitive firearms and to regulate weapon types, licenses, sex of deer, and season area.
  • New weapon specifications for primitive firearms season:
    • Breech-loading rifles with a caliber of .35 or larger may be used.
    • Pre-charged pneumatic devices must meet one of the following:
    • Fire a projectile of at least .30 caliber, 150 grains, with a muzzle velocity of at least 800 feet per second; or
    • Any combination of bullet weight and velocity that yields a muzzle energy of at least 215 foot-pounds.
  • Harvest restrictions:
    • Deer taken during the primitive firearms season must be taken by still hunting (no driving of deer).
    • The season may be opened in all or some areas where deer hunting is currently or may be conducted in the future.
  • Optics:
    • During the primitive firearms season, any licensee may use a magnified scope on weapons authorized for that season (expands scope allowances).

Who/what is affected

  • Hunters participating in Louisiana’s primitive firearms deer season.
  • Hunters using or considering pre-charged pneumatic devices for deer hunting.
  • The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (and its regulatory process) is responsible for adopting the specific rules and regulations implementing these changes, including weapon standards, licensing, and restricted areas.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill amends R.S. 56:116(C) to add the new PCD provisions.
  • Rules and regulations governing the primitive firearms season (including the use of PCDs) will be adopted by the Commission.
  • Effective date of changes: August 1, 2026.
  • Legislative action history excerpt:
    • Introduced in March 2026.
    • Reported favorably by April 15, 2026.
    • Co-sponsor: Caleb Kleinpeter.

Practical impact and considerations

  • Expands permissible hunting gear within a defined, regulated framework for the primitive firearms season.
  • Requires the Commission to establish clear standards for PCDs (caliber, projectile weight, velocity, energy) to ensure safety, fairness, and wildlife management goals.
  • The change may affect licensing and hunter education materials to reflect the new allowed equipment and hunting methods.
  • Potential wildlife management implications will depend on how the Commission implements the rules, including any area-specific restrictions and enforcement considerations.

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

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