Erie County Legislator Chris Greene recently introduced a local law that would allow youths ages 12 and 13 to hunt big game with a firearm or crossbow under the supervision of an experienced and licensed adult hunter. 

New York was the only state in the country to exclude 12 and 13-year-olds from hunting big game with archery and small game with firearms. Recently, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation included in the finalized budget for the fiscal year of 2021-2022 allowing youth hunters to hunt deer with firearm or crossbow, but individual counties must opt-in to the Environmental Conservation Law to participate. The law provides a pilot program until 2023 for young hunters to learn under the supervision of licensed and experienced hunters; youths must also wear appropriate florescent orange or pink clothing and remain ground level while hunting.

Legislator Greene said, “There is no reason why 12 and 13-year-olds should not be able to hunt big game under the watch of an experienced hunter. This gives them a real-life opportunity to become proper and responsible hunters in the future when they are able to go by themselves. I am happy to support a local law such as this.”

NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “This new opportunity allows experienced, adult hunters to introduce the value of hunting to the next generation. Teaching these young people safe, responsible and ethical hunting practices will ensure a rewarding experience every time they are afield. I encourage all upstate counties to consider ‘opting-in’ to support New York’s young hunters and their potential contributions to deer management.”