Governor Maura Healey visited Falmouth on Thursday to announce plans to update the hunting laws in Massachusetts.
The governor will propose amending three hunting statutes when she files her supplemental budget.
The changes would include hunting on Sundays, expanding hunting with crossbows and reducing setback distances for bowhunting and falconry.
“Hunting is a longstanding tradition that supports local economies, helps manage wildlife populations, and puts food on the table for families. It’s time we update our laws to reflect today’s needs,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We know many Massachusetts residents travel to other states on Sundays to hunt, and we want them to be able to gather with friends and family here. By modernizing these rules, we can give wildlife experts better tools to manage our ecosystems and public health while expanding opportunities for people across Massachusetts to go outside and take part in this time-honored tradition.”
“These changes will mean more tourism dollars going into our communities, while also boosting food security and protecting public health,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “At the same time, we have a responsibility to make sure our public health infrastructure keeps pace, and making alpha-gal syndrome reportable is a commonsense step toward better protecting the people who spend time outdoors.”
Healey says the updates are part of a holistic strategy to expand access for all to outdoor recreation, protect public health, increase food security and conserve biodiversity.
The announcement comes after the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife held a series of public listening sessions.
(Photo: Governor Healey's Office)