US Fish and Wildlife Service Review of MT Regulations

A disgruntled disabled individual wishing to use a crossbow during Montana's archery only season has filed a complaint with the USFWS. The individual, Dave Reed of Kansas, apparently has a number of crossbow permits from other states, and feels that he is being discriminated against in his desire to use crossbows in Montana as well. Mr. Reed has been active for some months now, writing letters to the MBA, FWP, Access Montana Outdoors, and various F&G commissioners expressing his desire to obtain a permit to use the illegal weapon (during archery season), stating his disability as license to do so. 

The MBA has come out recently with a strict "no crossbow" policy as a result of a survey of its members. The MBA believes the use of crossbows under any circumstance during archery only seasons would permanently alter the fundamental nature of bowseason. 

Mr. Reed's inability to gain satisfaction in his quest led him to his filing a complaint with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, who administers the Pittman-Robertson funding to the states. The Federal agency is required to make sure the states are in compliance with the American Disabilities Act before administration of the funding - an important source for state wildlife management agencies. Similarly, the USFWS is in review of Washington State's bowhunting regulations, which provide for a disabled archer's permit, but prohibits the use of crossbows by anyone during any season. 

Montana currently allows for the use of crossbows during the 5-week general rifle season. 

A decision on the review of WA state's compliance with the ADA is expected to set a national precedent on the topic, and should occur by the end of March 2002. Montana's case will likely be affected by the decision.