A state lawmaker is proposing to change antler restrictions for certain hunters. Rep. David Maloney Sr. (R-Berks) sent a memo to House members to amend the Pennsylvania Game Code for senior hunters. At present, senior hunters can only shoot bucks with at least three legal points on at least one side, including the brow tine.

The change would give senior hunters the same restrictions as junior hunters, mentored youth, disabled hunters and resident active-duty armed services personnel. This would drop the requirement to either two points on one side or a spike antler at least 3 inches in length. Maloney says the change would help to control the spread of chronic wasting disease, which is more common in older bucks who travel greater distances during the rut.

“I believe this simple change in the law will allow our valued senior hunters to enjoy additional opportunity to harvest antlered deer, and greatly enhance their hunting experience,” said Maloney.

A senior hunter in Pennsylvania must be 65 years old or older. Residents who are 64 can apply for a license if their birthday is before June 30 of the current license year.

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