The state law that allows the use of crossbows for big game hunting expires Dec. 31, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

The expiring law also eliminated permit requirements for use of special archery equipment by hunters with physical disabilities.

Legislation allowing the use of crossbows during certain big game hunting seasons took effect on February 1, 2011. The law allowed licensed hunters to use a crossbow during the 2011 and 2012 big game hunting seasons.

“The popularity of crossbows is growing in New York, though relatively few hunters have taken deer with crossbows because they may only be used during the regular firearms season and subsequent muzzleloader season,” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens said.

It will still be lawful for hunters with physical disabilities to use special archery equipment once the law expires, but they may need to apply for a “Modified Archer Permit” from the DEC’s Special Licenses Unit in Albany. Under the expiring legislation only a physician’s affirmation of need was required to allow the use of special equipment.

For information about current crossbow hunting laws in New York visit www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/68802.html.

For information about hunters’ crossbow use, see Appendix 5 of DEC’s Management Plan for White-tailed Deer in New York State 2012-2016 at www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/deerplan2012.pdf.