By Blake Jackson
Governor Josh Shapiro has officially signed into law legislation that fully repeals Pennsylvania’s longstanding ban on Sunday hunting, marking a historic advancement for hunters and conservation efforts across the state.
“The Pennsylvania Game Commission could not be more excited to celebrate this long-awaited moment,” Executive Director Steve Smith said. “This landmark law effectively will contribute to keeping hunters engaged and performing the valuable public service they provide in helping manage our wildlife populations and ensuring the future of wildlife conservation. Today is a win for wildlife. Today will forever be remembered."
Smith extended gratitude to Representative Mandy Steele, the sponsor of House Bill 1431, which has become Act 36 of 2025, as well as to Senator Dan Laughlin, Governor Shapiro, and numerous supporting organizations. “All played a huge role in getting us here, and on behalf of hunters statewide, I thank you,” Smith added.
The repeal, which takes effect 60 days after the signing, gives the Game Commission time to consider adding new Sunday hunting days to the 2025-26 season.
“This new law totally repeals the prohibition on Sunday hunting, which marks a truly historic win for the current and future generation of Pennsylvania hunters,” Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Allegheny said. “Hunters have been working on this issue for decades, to allow them more time in the woods, and it’s been an honor to lead on this issue in the House."
“Pennsylvania Farm Bureau was a proud supporter of House Bill 1431, a key piece of legislation developed in collaboration between wildlife groups and the agricultural community to improve wildlife management and address deer overpopulation,” Pennsylvania Farm Bureau Chris Hoffman said.
“These measures will help farmers better control deer populations, protect their crops, and support the long-term sustainability of agriculture in our state. We thank the General Assembly for getting this important bill across the finish line and we look forward to using the tools they gave us to mitigate crop damage and help protect the profitability of our farms.”
“The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation has been working to repeal this antiquated legislative prohibition on Sunday hunting for over a decade in the Commonwealth,” Kaleigh Leager of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation said.
Legislators including Sen. Greg Rothman and Rep. Anita Kulik praised the bipartisan cooperation that led to the bill’s passage, showcasing unity among conservationists, lawmakers, and the farming community.
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Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy