12 and 13-year-olds in Erie County will soon be allowed to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow after a law proposed by Legislator Frank Todaro passed the Legislature Thursday afternoon.

 

The law has received strong support from local sportsmen’s groups throughout Erie County and Western New York, who recently spoke at a public hearing of the Legislature advocating for its passage. The law passed at the state level in April and requires counties to opt-in. Additionally, it is a pilot program until December 2023. The New York State DEC will be required to report by February 1st of each year the number of violations, hunting-related accidents and revocations, the number of minors participating and the number of deer taken.

 

Legislator Todaro said, “This provides our youth with a great learning opportunity under the close watch of experienced hunters when they are out in the woods. I, myself, have taken my son out on hunting trips and have been able to teach him the basics and watch him hone his skills. It’s important we show kids safe and ethical practices in order to make hunting a positive experience for all. This law is a huge win for the local hunting community and I thank my colleagues for their support in getting it passed today.”

 

The law will be sent to the County Executive who is required to hold a public hearing then sign or veto it.