February 25, 2016
The Honorable Stanley Rosenberg
President of the Senate
Statehouse Room 332
Boston MA, 02133
Dear Senate President Rosenberg,
We are writing to you to express our support for Senate Bill 414, An Act relative to the use of crossbows in hunting. Current hunting laws only allow the use of crossbows for those with documented medical disabilities. If passed, this bill would lift the existing prohibition, allowing more hunters to use them in recognition of the safety improvements of crossbows.
With the advancement of crossbow technology over the last two decades, many states are allowing their use for many types of hunting. Currently, 32 states, including nearby states such as Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Maine, allow for the use of crossbows in hunting for non-disabled individuals. The number of states that permit the use of crossbows reflects the technological improvement and popularity of this hunting device. Lifting the prohibition will also open up the hobby to individuals who no longer have the strength to pull back a traditional bow and arrow, including the elderly and those with arthritic conditions, without requiring them to receive permission from a medical doctor.
This bill, in doing away with the statutory prohibition of crossbows, would allow the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to regulate their use as they do with standard archery equipment to ensure safe use of the device. The Division will have the ability to regulate the general design, weight of pull, and type of crossbows allowed, conforming to the general standards accepted for hunting purposes.
Senate Bill 414 will update the decades-old hunting laws to reflect modern technology and current hunting trends, allowing hunters greater flexibility while maintaining a safe environment
If we can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Anne M. Gobi
Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire and Middlesex District