Debate over Sunday bow‑hunting grows heated as Maryland panel weighs HB 186
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Summary
HB 186 would allow Sunday archery hunting on private land during regulated seasons; sponsors described the measure as a targeted, bow‑only compromise to address deer damage, while equestrian, trail‑user and some public‑safety witnesses urged the committee to reject or limit the bill citing safety, shared access and local control concerns.
Sponsor testimony described HB 186 as a compromise that would allow bow hunting only on private land during regulated deer and turkey seasons, intended to give working hunters an additional opportunity without allowing firearms. "It is strictly bow only," the sponsor said, and emphasized that counties could continue to place time‑of‑day restrictions.
Proponents included the Maryland Bowhunter Society, which said archery is a safe means to address deer overpopulation and crop damage and touted the sport's economic benefits. "Archery is considered the safest form of hunting...we hope for a favorable outcome," the association president said.
Opponents — including the Maryland Horse Council, trail riders and recreational groups — warned that arrows can travel long distances and that suburban land parcels and intertwined public/private boundaries increase the risk to non‑hunters. Christy Clagett of the Maryland Horse Council testified that modern compound bows and crossbows can travel hundreds of yards and that public‑land users could be put at risk.
Some members suggested the measure belongs in the utilities subcommittee or that county‑level accommodations and time‑windows (e.g., 10:30 a.m. restrictions) could be maintained. The hearing record shows lively debate about local control; the sponsor said he would work on amendments to allow municipalities latitude.
The committee concluded the hearing after receiving numerous in‑person and virtual witnesses for and against the bill.
