571—15.22(481A) Authorization to use a crossbow for deer and turkey hunting during the bow season by handicapped individuals.

1. 15.22(1)  Definitions. For the purpose of this rule:

   “Bow and arrow” means a compound, recurve, or longbow.

   “Crossbow” means a weapon consisting of a bow mounted transversely on a stock or frame and designed to fire a bolt, arrow, or quarrel by the release of the bow string, which is controlled by a mechanical or electric trigger and a working safety.

   “Handicapped” means a person possessing a physical impairment of the upper extremities that makes a person physically incapable of shooting a bow and arrow. This includes difficulty in lifting and reaching with arms as well as difficulty in handling and fingering.

2. 15.22(2)  Application for crossbow permit. An individual requesting use of a crossbow for hunting deer or turkey must submit an application for a crossbow permit on forms provided by the department. The application must include a statement signed by the applicant’s physician declaring that the individual is not physically capable of shooting a bow and arrow. The physician shall be a licensed physician, osteopathic physician, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner. A first-time applicant must submit the crossbow permit application no later than ten days before the last day of the license application period for the season the person intends to hunt.
3. 15.22(3)  Crossbow permit—issuance and use. Approved applicants will be issued a permit authorizing the individual to hunt deer and turkey with a crossbow. The crossbow permit must be carried with the license and on the person while hunting deer and turkey and must be exhibited to a conservation officer upon request.

4. 15.22(4)  Validity and forfeiture of permit. A permit authorizing the use of a crossbow for hunting deer and turkey will be valid for as long as the person is incapable of shooting a bow and arrow. If a conservation officer has probable cause to believe the person’s handicapped status has improved, making it possible for the person to shoot a bow and arrow, the department may, upon the officer’s request, require the person to obtain in writing a current physician’s statement. The physician shall be a licensed physician, osteopathic physician, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner.

   If the person is unable to obtain a current physician’s statement confirming that the person is incapable of shooting a bow and arrow, the department may initiate action to revoke the permit pursuant to 571—Chapter 7.

5. 15.22(5)  Restrictions. Crossbows equipped with pistol grips and designed to be fired with one hand are illegal for taking or attempting to take deer or turkey. All projectiles used in conjunction with a crossbow for deer hunting must be equipped with a broadhead.

[ARC 7893C, IAB 5/1/24, effective 6/5/24]