Lawmakers Push End to Pennsylvania’s Sunday Hunting Ban

Pennsylvania hunters may soon get to enjoy expanded Sunday hunting opportunities if the legislation passes. (Photo by Bill Konway)

A bill that would end Pennsylvania’s ban on Sunday hunting has passed the state Senate.

According to Fox News, Pennsylvania previously restricted hunting on Sundays to three Sundays per calendar year. In 2019, legislation gave the Pennsylvania Game Commission the power to determine the specific Sundays allowed for hunting, with one day for rifle season, one day for deer archery season and one day held at the Game Commission’s discretion.

State Senator Dan Laughlin said Sunday hunting would boost local economies in rural areas.

"The hunting industry is a crucial part of our state's economy. It supports jobs, generates revenue, and sustains businesses in many of these rural counties, from sporting goods stores to rural diners," Laughlin said.

Hunters can currently pursue foxes, coyotes, and crows on any Sunday during open seasons.

Pennsylvania hunting and fishing licenses brought in $89 million in 2023 and $87 million in 2022 in terms of state tax collections.

"It’s clear allowing hunting on only three Sundays hasn’t provided enough freedom to encourage more people to purchase hunting licenses," Laughlin said. "Hunting is a tradition passed down through families, a bonding experience between generations, lifting this restriction will not only preserve this tradition but also ensure that it can be fully enjoyed and passed on to future generations.”

Sunday hunting is still illegal in Maine and Massachusetts and limited in Connecticut. New Jersey doesn’t allow gun deer hunting on Sundays and there are limitations on bow hunting.

Bills to further expand Sunday hunting are moving in both the Pennsylvania House and Senate.