Update: New Crossbow law signed by Governor in Mississippi

  As of July 1, 2013, it will be legal for all residents and non-residents to hunt on private and leased land with a crossbow in the early archery season and in all other deer, turkey and, small game seasons. (Crossbows were already legal on all state lands). In addition, the two crossbow permitting system has been eliminated. All one has to now do is to purchase a single Sportsman's license or other appropriate hunting license. The reference to Mississippi Code Section 49-7-31.1 on line (2) is a reminder that archers must wear hunter orange when hunting in all gun seasons. Below is the exact wording of the bill as it was signed by Governor Bryant. Senate Bill 2048 (As Sent to Governor)

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 49-7-38, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT PERSONS EXEMPT FROM LICENSING AND PERSONS LICENSED TO HUNT DEER WITH A BOW OR PRIMITIVE WEAPON MAY HUNT WITH A BOW DURING ANY OPEN SEASON ON DEER; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:      SECTION 1.  Section 49-7-38, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows: 49-7-38.  (1) * * *  Any person who is exempt from having a hunting license and any person licensed to hunt deer with a bow or primitive weapon may hunt with a crossbow or bow and arrow during any open season on deer, turkey or small game. (2) * * *  When hunting during any gun season on deer, the hunter must comply with Section 49-7-31.1.      SECTION 2.  This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2013