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Electronic devices now lawful for hunting, agency reports

HARRISBURG — Four electronic devices recently approved for use while hunting now may be used afield.

Within established seasons, hunters now may use electronic decoys in hunting waterfowl; electronic dove decoys solely for hunting doves; electronically heated scent or lure dispensers; and electronic devices that distribute ozone gas for scent-control purposes.

The state Board of Game Commissioners in September gave final approval to a measure to allow the devices, but with all regulatory changes, the changes do not become law until they are published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. The changes were published Saturday.

In reviewing the devices that recently were approved for hunting use, the Game Commission identified no negative impacts that would result from their use.

Other electronic devices that are permitted for use while hunting or trapping in Pennsylvania include:

• Firearms that use an electronic impulse to initiate discharge of their ammunition

• Electronic sound-amplification devices incorporated into hearing protection devices and completely contained in or on a hunter’s ear

• Electronic devices used for locating dogs while training and hunting

• Electronic illuminating devices affixed to the aft end of a bolt or arrow and used solely for locating or tracking a bolt or arrow after it is launched

• Electronic crow decoys used solely for hunting crows

• Electronic rangefinders, including handheld devices and those contained within a scope or archery sight, so long that it does not emit a beam.

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