Frederick and Washington Counties - Bow Hunting - Openly Carrying Handguns

HB 511 prohibits Maryland's Department of Natural Resources from banning licensed bow hunters from openly carrying a handgun during deer hunting season in Frederick and Washington Counties. It specifically allows bow hunters aged 21 or older to carry handguns for personal protection under three conditions: hunting in those counties (or Region A deer management area), carrying only for protection, and not using the handgun to kill animals wounded by their bow. The bill amends Maryland’s Natural Resources Code to clarify this exception to existing weapon restrictions during bow hunting. It directly affects licensed bow hunters in those two counties during deer season, not statewide.