Pennsylvania Bill Seeks Full Repeal of Sunday Hunting Ban

By Blake Jackson

Senator Dan Laughlin has introduced Senate Bill 67, aiming to fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban and transfer wildlife management authority to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

This initiative has gained significant support, including from the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB), provided agricultural concerns are adequately addressed.

"For eight years, I have fought to remove this outdated prohibition and expand opportunities for hunters," Laughlin stated. "Through open dialogue and collaboration, we’ve built a consensus. I am pleased that the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau now fully supports this effort and is calling for its passage."

“Pennsylvania Farm Bureau proudly supports Laughlin’s bill, a key piece of legislation developed in collaboration between wildlife groups and the agricultural community to improve wildlife management and address deer overpopulation,” Chris Hoffman, President of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, said. “These measures will help farmers better control deer populations, protect their crops, and support the long-term sustainability of agriculture in our state.”

The bill seeks to align Pennsylvania with the 39 states that have no Sunday hunting restrictions. While Act 107 of 2019 allowed hunting on three Sundays, a full repeal is considered necessary for greater access and conservation efforts.

"The Sunday hunting prohibition is one of the last remnants of our commonwealth’s antiquated ‘Blue Laws,’” Laughlin said. “Hunting is a longstanding tradition, a vital conservation tool, and an economic driver for rural communities. It’s time we fully eliminate this restriction.”

Laughlin stressed that the bill's support is contingent on addressing agricultural concerns, particularly mitigating crop damage from wildlife.

Andy Bater, PFB State Board Director, noted, "Delegates representing Pennsylvania Farm Bureau members voted to remove their opposition to Sunday hunting, contingent upon the implementation of significant statutory and regulatory changes addressing crop damage from wildlife and hunting management on farmland."

Expanding Sunday hunting also benefits individuals with disabilities who need assistance in the field.

"I want to give the needed latitude to the Game Commission to increase hunting and trapping opportunities and rebuild interest in hunting, which will benefit all Pennsylvanians," Laughlin said. "This is about modernizing our laws, supporting conservation, and ensuring hunting remains a strong tradition for future generations."

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