Relates to hunting deer with a crossbow

• Republican6
• Democratic1

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Christopher Ryan says this is needed

Deer hunting is a recreational activity that thousands of people, of varying ages and experiences, enjoy in the State. Older hunters, many of whom have engaged in the sport of hunting for their entire lives, some- times struggle with the heavy draw weight of longbows. These bows can be difficult to use effectively because of the strength required to pull back the bowstring and fire. As such, a hunter's experience could be in jeopardy due to factors that are out of their control. In contrast to longbows, crossbows are a suitable alternative for those that struggle with the draw weight of longbows. Forty-eight other States permit crossbow use in hunting for either certain individuals or specif- ic portions of the hunting season. Recognizing the benefits of crossbow hunting for older hunters, Minnesota recently passed a law that allows licensed hunters that are sixty years or older to use crossbows in hunt- ing during the regular archery deer, bear, turkey, or rough fish season. Allowing hunters that are sixty years or older to hunt deer with a crossbow during a special archery season would only prove to benefit the State. Older hunters would be able to continue enjoying the sport that they love without experiencing any difficulties associated with using a longbow.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.