I have sent a version of this letter about being in favor of legalized crossbow hunting in New York State to Gunther, Bonacic, Sweeney, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Cuomo. I believe last year the legislation for crossbow use by all hunters was derailed because of the unconstitutional SAFE Act. I just want to go on record that I would like to see the crossbow at least in rifle and muzzleloader season and recommend giving crossbow (and bow) its own week or two in December after muzzleloader, and start the early bow later and run late bow longer so the deer can be in the rut and not shot before breeding. The crossbow is great because once it is sighted in, anyone can use it just like a rifle, but its shooting range is more like a compound bow; with the compound bow each archer needs to have the bow specifically set up for that archer. The crossbow also is a great way to manage deer and coyote populations close to town. I have not yet invested in a crossbow; however, I am considering purchasing one and hunting in Pennsylvania next year so that I can use a crossbow. Please contact the DEC and let them know you are in favor of crossbow use in NY.

God bless America, one nation under God.

John “JP” Pasquale

Livingston Manor, NY