Crossbow sunset repealed after report shows no negative impacts to deer or turkey populations
ST. PAUL, Minn. — Today, April 9, 2026,the Minnesota Senate passed Senate File 1251, authored by Senator Susan Pha (DFL – Brooklyn Park). This bill repeals the sunset in place for crossbow hunting.
In the 2023 Omnibus Environment bill, the legislature included a provision to allow crossbow hunting in the state until June 30, 2025. Then, in 2025, the legislature authorized a 1-year extension of this sunset to allow time for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to prepare a report on any impacts they observed from crossbow hunting.
“As hunters, we have a responsibility to harvest animals ethically,” said Sen. Pha. “Though I continue to practice with a compound bow, my smaller frame makes a crossbow the more reliable choice for a clean, humane harvest, not just wounding an animal. Eliminating the sunset provision on crossbow hunting ensures that every Minnesotan who wants to participate in our hunting traditions can — regardless of their physical limitations.”
The DNR report, Analysis of Expanded Crossbow Use on Deer and Turkey Populations During Archery Seasons (Oct. 2025), finds no evidence that the expansion of crossbow use during archery season has had impacts on deer and turkey populations thus far. The report does find that expanded crossbow use has positively affected the recruitment of youth and women hunters and retention of aging hunters.
“A variety of people may struggle with the mastery of a compound bow,” said Sen. Pha. “Our state’s history of conservation is based on responsible hunting and sound wildlife management. To sustain that legacy, we must ensure we have inclusive hunting laws. Adding the crossbow as an option has shown an increase in participation among female and younger Minnesotans interested in hunting; an important development for a community that is aging and declining in numbers.”
The Minnesota Deer Hunters Association supports this legislation. The bill passed the Minnesota Senate on a 67-0 vote. Today’s floor debate can be viewed here.
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Learn more about Sen. Pha.
