N.Y. eyes lowering hunting age

PLATTSBURGH | The proposed New York Executive Budget contains language that looks to lower the youth hunting age and allow crossbow hunting in all big game seasons. A portion of the proposed budget looks to institute a minimum universal hunting age of 12 to allow 12-and 13-year-olds to hunt big game with adult supervision. The current minimum hunting age in New York is 14. All other states have a minimum age of 12 or younger. The proposal also looks to clarify crossbows as archery equipment and would require license holders to purchase bowhunter privileges in order to use them. Users would also be required to take a bowhunting education course in addition to hunter-safety training. The measure also looks to allow crossbow hunting in all big game seasons and supporters say the crossbow expansion could add $1.5 million in revenue to the Conservation Fund by helping to recruit and retain new hunters. The New York State Conservation Fund Advisory Board, which makes recommendations to the state on programs and policies that affect fish and wildlife management and conservation, supports the legislation. The National Conservancy and Audubon New York have also voiced support for the change. Sen. Dan Stec (R,C,I-Queensbury) said "The sporting community saw a big boost this past year. Many more hunting licenses were sold and there was a dramatic increase in hunter education courses. The governor's budget proposal would build on this momentum at a pivotal time." A new state budget is due by April 1.

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N.Y. eyes lowering hunting age

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