NY Youth Deer Hunters May Soon Be Permitted To Use A Firearm, Crossbow

ALBANY – Youth hunters in New York may soon be able to use a firearm or crossbow.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says a prevision included in the state’s budget allows residents ages 12 and 13 to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow under the supervision of an experienced adult hunter.

The legislation requires each county to “opt-in” to the program by adopting a local law allowing for 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt.

The DEC says for nearly two decades, children ages 12 and 13 in New York have been safely hunting deer and bear with archery equipment and small game with firearms.

Until now, New York was the only state that didn’t allow 12 and 13-year-olds to hunt big game with a firearm.