The Massachusetts Fisheries and Wildlife Board has endorsed a package of proposed statutory changes that would allow hunting on Sundays and expand crossbow access to all hunters. The unanimous vote came at the board’s meeting in Westborough on Wednesday, following a report from Acting Director Eve Schlüter detailing feedback gathered from residents.
Changes Proposed
Currently, hunting is prohibited on Sundays in Massachusetts. The proposed changes would allow MassWildlife to regulate hunting on Sundays. The changes would remove restrictions limiting crossbow use to hunters with permanent disabilities. The setback requirement for archery hunters and falconry would as well be reduced from 500 feet to 250 feet from an occupied dwelling.
Governor Maura Healey’s administration requested input on these potential changes, and she announced less than 24 hours after the board’s vote that she would file legislation to enact them. However, MassWildlife itself lacks the authority to change the statutes and requires legislative action.
Advocates suggest that implementing these changes could address food insecurity, reduce vehicle collisions with deer, and limit the spread of tick-borne diseases. Schlüter emphasized that hunting in Massachusetts is highly regulated and safe, stating that there has never been a non-hunter killed by a hunter in the state, and most hunter injuries result from falls.
Public Response
The recommendations followed five listening sessions and an online portal for public comment. The feedback showed 70% support for allowing Sunday hunting. Commissioner Matthew Sisk described the process as “historic” in its speed.
Despite the board’s endorsement, opposition remains. The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) issued a statement urging the preservation of the Sunday hunting ban, citing the benefits it provides to the 99% of residents who do not hunt. Judy Eiseman of Pelham plans to mobilize opposition, anticipating protest from those who do not hunt and oppose relaxed setback requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes are being proposed regarding hunting in Massachusetts?
The proposed changes include allowing hunting on Sundays, expanding crossbow access to all hunters, and reducing the setback requirement for archery hunters and falconry from 500 feet to 250 feet.
What was the public response to these proposed changes?
The feedback from five listening sessions and an online portal showed 70% support for allowing Sunday hunting, with a total of 11,231 unique comments received.
What happens next with these proposed changes?
Governor Healey has announced she will file legislation to enact the changes. However, the legislation must be approved by the legislature, which has previously sent similar proposals to study committees.
Will these proposed changes ultimately become law, or will they face the same fate as previous attempts to lift the Sunday hunting ban?
