Outdoors with Larry DiDonato - Crossbow Bill Passes in Legislature

The longstanding "Crossbow Bill" legisllation is headed to the governor's desk for her signature, after it passed both houses in the NY Legislature late in the session on Monday June 17th. The measure has long been touted by its advocates and supporters.

Late in the afternoon on Monday, June 17th, in the dwindling hours of the 2025 legislative session, the New York State Assembly, in a bipartisan vote unanimously passed the “Crossbow Bill,” (A8330A). That was the last hurdle for the long-awaited legislation as the Senate had already passed their companion bill. The legislation will now be sent to the governor’s desk where it’s expected to be signed into law. 

The passage of this bill in both houses of the legislature is a big deal and will be solidified as a momentous accomplishment if and when the governor signs it. It’s the result of a long-term effort personified by the late Rick McDermott, who founded the New York Crossbow Coalition back in 2012. Rick and his wife, Annemarie, were tragically killed in a car accident just one year ago on June 10th 2024. Then vice president, Roy Dust, immediately took the reins of the NY Crossbow Coalition upon Rick’s passing. He continued Rick’s efforts to get the bill passed and serves as the current president of the organization.

Highlights of the legislation include:

• The definition of “long bow” now includes crossbows as well as compound and other bows; this allows crossbows to be used in any deer season where long bows are legal, including early and late archery seasons.

• An archery privilege and stamp will be required when hunting with a crossbow

• Eliminates minimum width and length requirements for crossbows, and eliminates a minimum length for crossbow bolts. 

• Eliminates maximum peak draw weight requirements for crossbows.

• Crossbows, now that they are defined as “long bows” can be discharged within 150 feet of dwellings/structures throughout the state except in Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties where they are prohibited from being discharged within 500 of dwellings. 

 The repeal of the requirements that crossbows be at least 17-inches wide and 24-inches in length is among the welcome provisions of this legislation. Crossbow technology advanced to the point that many, if not most of the crossbows sold in stores and used by hunters in NY, fell into the illegal category. That’s despite the fact being out of specification with regulations caused them to be more powerful, accurate, and efficient hunting implements. I’m happy to report the Environmental Conservation Law has finally caught up with the technology.  

 NY Crossbow Coalition President, Roy Dust gives all the credit for the impetus and ultimate passage of this significant legislation to his past president, Rick McDermott. In an interview, he stated, “Rick is smiling down from heaven on the success of the passage of this legislation.” Roy said he continued in Rick’s footsteps by empowering his leadership team, the board of directors, and the individual members of the Crossbow Coalition who he motivated and encouraged to meet one-on-one with their local legislators.  

 Roy, and others, met with Environmental Conservation Committee Assembly Chair, (D) Deborah J. Glick, and Senate Environmental Conservation Committee Chair, (D) Peter Harckham, who Roy says were critically essential in getting the bill through both houses. Roy Dust also thanks (R) Assemblyman Robert Smullen, of Herkimer County, for his efforts and advice, and credits NYS DEC for coordinating an event where the public and legislators like Chairman Glick were instructed in the use, operation, and safety of hunting with crossbows.  

 Other organizations including the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, the NYS Sportsmen’s Advisory Coalition, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the NYS Conservation Council are among the many supporters contributing in the effort to get the legislation passed the finish line. Once signed into law by the governor, the new regulations should be in effect before the fall archery seasons.

Happy hunting, fishing, and trapping until next time!

News and Notes 

Ray Brooks Memorial Youth Fishing Derby in Catskill to be held on Saturday, June 21st The Greene County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs is sponsoring the annual Ray Brooks Memorial Youth Fishing Derby to be held on Saturday, June 21st at Catskill Point. Kids 5-15 years of age are eligible to register and compete. Registration is from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Fishing starts at 10:00 am and ends promptly at 1:00 pm. Kids must be accompanied by an adult and must bring their own fishing equipment. Bait and refreshments will be provided, and all registrants will get a prize. Bring the kids down for this fun, free, fishing event!   

Norton Hill Wildlife Club Trap and 3D Archery Program Schedules

The Norton Hill Wildlife Club’s Sunday Trap Program is ongoing. Remaining dates are: July 20th, August 10th, and September 7th. Trap begins at 10:00 am. Cost is $5.00 per round. Bring your own ammo and ear and eye protection which is required. Breakfast sandwiches will be available starting at 9:00 am for $5.00.  For further information call Chad at 518-291-3784. 

Their 3D Archery Program dates are: July 12th and 13th, August 23rd and 24th, and September 13th. A chicken BBQ will be available from 7:00 am until Noon. Cost for adults is $15.00, 12-17 at $7.00 and kids under 12 are free. For more information call Eric at 518-646-6338. 

*The gun range will be closed on the 3DArchery range dates listed above.