HARRISBURG, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro officially signed House Bill 1431 into law on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, a landmark piece of legislation that fully repeals Pennsylvania's centuries-old ban on Sunday hunting for deer and furtaking. This significant change will go into effect in 60 days, on September 7, 2025, ensuring it is in place well before Pennsylvania's upcoming deer hunting season this fall.
The new law strengthens protections for private property owners and farmers, addressing a key concern that had historically been a roadblock to the bill's passage. By lifting this restriction, the bill eliminates one of Pennsylvania’s last remaining "blue laws" – archaic statutes banning certain activities on Sundays, some of which date back to the 1700s. Under the newly enacted law, the Pennsylvania Game Commission will now have the exclusive authority to determine hunting seasons, allowing them to designate an unlimited number of Sundays for hunting and furtaking throughout the state.This move is expected to increase opportunities for hunters, potentially boost license sales, and contribute to wildlife management efforts.