Big game hunting bill in Orleans, Genesee passes Assembly

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 16 June 2017 at 1:33 pm

Photo from Assemblyman Hawley’s Office: This photo shows the Assembly voting board announcing a hunting bill in Orleans County is currently up for a vote.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R-Batavia) announced the passage of a bill authorizing residents in Orleans and Genesee counties to hunt big game from Nov. 15 till Dec. 7.

The bill allows residents to hunt using pistols, shotguns, muzzle loaded firearms, long bows, crossbows or rifles.

“Hunting is an important part of our history, it is how our forefathers survived and provided for their families,” said Hawley. “As a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, I am proud to announce that citizens of Orleans and Genesee counties will be able to continue this centuries-old tradition that is such a huge part of our Western New York culture. As a proud outdoorsman myself, I will continue to work tirelessly to protect our constitutional rights from special interests attempting to restrict them. The passage of this bill is a step in the right direction toward maintaining our freedom and right to own firearms.”

The Orleans County Legislature on Feb. 22 voted to allow rifles for deer and bear hunting.

Members of sportsmen clubs attended Legislature meetings in December and January, asking the county to support rifles for big game hunting. (Rifles have been allowed for small game, such as woodchucks, foxes, crows and coyotes.) The sportsmen presented a petition signed by about 500 people, supporting rifles.

The county resolution needs approval from the state before the law is enacted.

Return to top