What the statutes mean

Chiropractors are allowed to perform the exam necessary for an individual to obtain a crossbow permit. An individual is allowed to receive a crossbow permit if they are not able to use a bow and arrow and they meet any of the following:

• They have an amputation or other loss of one or both arms above the wrist.

• They have an amputation or other loss of the index or middle finger on the draw and release hand.

• They have a permanent substantial loss of function in one or both arms or one or both hands and fail to meet the minimum testing standards for one of the following tests:

- Upper extremity pinch
- Grip
- Nine-hole peg

• They have a permanent substantial loss of function in one or both shoulders and fail to meet the minimum standards of the standard shoulder strength tests.

Statute excerpts

29.171(4) (a) After proper application, the department shall issue to any person a crossbow permit to hunt with a crossbow meeting the specifications of par. (b) if the person is unable to use a bow and arrow and if the person meets any of the following:

29.171(4)(a)2. Has an amputation or other loss of one or more arms above the wrist.

29.171(4)(a)3. Has an amputation or other loss of the index or middle finger on the draw and release hand.

29.171(4)(a)4. Has a permanent substantial loss of function in one or both arms or one or both hands and fails to meet the minimum standards of any one of the following standard tests, administered under the direction of a licensed physician or a licensed chiropractor:

29.171(4)(a)4.a. Upper extremity pinch.

29.171(4)(a)4.b. Grip.

29.171(4)(a)4.c. Nine-hole peg.

29.171(4)(a)5. Has a permanent substantial loss of function in one or both shoulders and fails to meet the minimum standards of the standard shoulder strength tests, administered under the direction of a licensed physician or a licensed chiropractor.

29.171(4)(b) Crossbows used in hunting as authorized by a Class A, Class B or Class C permit issued under s. 29.193 (2) or under this subsection shall meet all of the following specifications:

29.171(4)(b)2. Shall have a minimum draw weight of 100 pounds.

29.171(4)(b)4. Shall have a working safety.

29.171(4)(b)5. Shall be used with bolts or arrows of not less than 14 inches in length with a broadhead.

29.171(4)(c) The department may issue a crossbow permit to an applicant who is ineligible for a permit under par. (a) or who is denied a permit under par. (a) if, upon review and after considering the physical condition of the applicant and the recommendation of a licensed physician or licensed chiropractor selected by the applicant from a list of licensed physicians and licensed chiropractors compiled by the department, the department finds that issuance of a permit complies with the intent of this subsection. The use of this review procedure is discretionary with the department and all costs of the review procedure shall be paid by the applicant.