OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police is reminding hunters of a recent legislative change concerning firearm use near public highways.

Under the updated law, it remains a crime to negligently discharge a firearm from or across the maintained portion of a public highway. However, the legislation now allows officers to issue a civil infraction in cases where a hunter discharges a firearm from or across a highway, regardless of negligence.

WDFW Police said the change reinforces the importance of safe hunting practices to protect both hunters and the public. Officials are urging hunters to remain mindful of their surroundings and follow all safety regulations during hunting season.