Subcommittee discusses HB 186 to allow bow hunting on Sundays; members seek county opt-outs and clearer weapon language

Summary

The subcommittee reviewed HB 186 to allow bow hunting on Sundays during applicable seasons. Members supported the idea in principle but asked the drafter and sponsor to clarify whether the change applies only to private land, how it interacts with current weapon-specific seasons, and which counties may opt out.

The Natural Resources and Open Spaces Subcommittee discussed House Bill 186, which would permit bow hunting on Sundays during applicable seasons, and considered how the measure fits into broader Sunday-hunting legislation.

Chair introduced the item as a possible addition to a larger Sunday-hunting bill. An unidentified drafter explained the bill would allow bow hunting on every Sunday of the deer and turkey bow seasons; it does not change existing days or hours for firearms and other weapons. The drafter clarified the language was split to reflect different weapon-specific seasons (for example, spring turkey season rules distinguish weapons differently).

Vice chair (unnamed in transcript) said she might consider the bill if it is limited to bow hunting on private land and if wording referencing "hunting devices other than a bow and arrow" is tightened. Members discussed that some counties may not want Sunday hunting and that county-level preferences may need to be addressed or excluded as the larger Sunday-hunting package is developed.

No votes were taken; the chair said the item may be fitted into the broader Sunday-hunting proposal and would be subject to further drafting and consideration. The subcommittee adjourned at the end of the meeting.