This petition is for those who support implementing restrictions on crossbow use during archery seasons.

This effort is being led by Minnesota Bowhunters - MBI. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization that started in 1946.

Some examples of proposed restrictions are included below:

Minnesota legislation that passed in 2023 permits the full inclusion of crossbows into the state's archery deer season. This legislation is set to expire on June 30th, 2025. We deeply believe that it is essential to let this law lapse and prevent its full renewal. While crossbows and airbows are effective hunting tools, we strongly emphasize that they are functionally different, and full inclusion is not appropriate during the archery deer season. 

If our legislators firmly believe that more opportunities for their constituents to crossbow deer hunt are needed, we strongly hold that full inclusion under the archery license is not the proper solution or what the majority of hunters in MN want. We understand that a compromise will likely be the most favorable legislative decision, and it is important to note that this doesn't have to be all or nothing. 

Popular proposals from hunters for when crossbows could be allowed during the archery deer season:

• Disabled / Elderly Allowance
• Youth Allowance
• Allow crossbows only during the muzzleloader and general firearm seasons for a total of four weeks. - Fair to those who have purchased crossbows over the past couple years. 
• Inclusion starting on firearm opener through the end of the season for 7+ weeks of use. - Extremely generous for those wishing to use a crossbow while respecting and preserving the distinctiveness and tradition of the early archery season.

Regardless of what level of inclusion is ultimately passed, a separate license or endorsement for use is essential for tracking participation and harvest so we can make data supported management decisions.

Let's stand together to maintain the integrity of the archery deer hunting season in Minnesota. Please sign this petition requesting our officials allow the 2023 full inclusion legislation to expire with no renewal.