Proposed changes to regulations would allow crossbows for big game hunting in New York State.

Another proposed change would eliminate a requirement that some physically disabled hunters use special equipment during any big game or small game archery season.

“The popularity of crossbows is growing in New York and the use of modified equipment is in high demand to meet the needs of our hunters who are temporarily or permanently disabled,” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens said.

The new rules would allow hunters to take big game -- deer and bear -- with a crossbow during regular big game seasons where a shotgun or muzzleloader is permitted, and during all late muzzleloader seasons.

Crossbows would not be allowed during the early bear or archery seasons or in any of the “archery only” wildlife management units.

Hunters could use a crossbow only after they have received crossbow safety training.

Hunters who can’t draw, hold, or release a vertical longbow because of a permanent physical disability will continue to be allowed to hunt with a specially equipped longbow. But the new legislation replaces the former “Modified Archery Permit” with a new “Modified Longbow Authorization” allowing hunters with permanent or temporary physical disabilities to hunt. DEC has proposed that disabled hunters must carry a standard department form while hunting.

A detailed description of the proposal and instructions for providing comments are available at www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/propregulations.html.

DEC will accept public comments on the proposal through July 11.