Why It Matters: On August 27, California Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1912 into law. California will now allow licensed hunters to carry a firearm capable of being concealed on their person while archery hunting for deer, removing an outdated restriction that currently leaves bowhunters uniquely vulnerable.
Highlights:
- The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) is pleased that AB 1912 was signed into law and remains hopeful that more pro-sportsmen legislation will be signed by Governor Newsom this month.
- AB 1912 was introduced by Outdoor Sporting Caucus Member Assemblymember Heather Hadwick.
- Beginning January 1, 2027, individuals hunting deer during archery season will be permitted to carry a conceal carry weapon for protection.
Governor Newsom signed AB 1912 into law just days before the California State Legislature adjourned on August 31. With this now enacted, beginning January 1, 2027, archery hunters will be able to carry a firearm for personal protection during deer season. Current California regulations allow individuals with a valid concealed-carry permit who are pursuing other big game species to carry a firearm, but deer hunters have historically been subject to a different restriction. AB 1912 corrects this disparity and represents a significant victory for California’s deer hunters.
Bowhunters are at a great disadvantage in self-defense-related situations due to the limitations of archery equipment. AB 1912 will provide hunters with an additional option for self-protection. This is particularly important in remote areas where hunters may encounter large predators or other dangerous encounters like illicit drug operations on public lands. CSF applauds the passage of AB 1912, in accordance with our longstanding policy in favor of allowing handgun carry while archery hunting. California joins the 37 states that already permit this important safety practice.
CSF is pleased that California’s archery deer hunters will soon have greater protections while out in the field and looks forward to seeing additional pro-sportsmen bills signed into law this month.