HARRISBURG, Pa. (EYT) — Pennsylvania’s traditional Monday rifle deer season opener is no more.

(AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)

Following a period of debate and deliberation, the Pennsylvania Game Commission voted to approve the move of the opening day of deer rifle season to the Saturday after Thanksgiving, according to YDR.com.

Preliminary approval for the measure was granted in January, but the decision was solidified on Tuesday morning with a 5-3 vote.

Since 1963, rifle deer season in Pennsylvania has kicked off on the Monday after Thanksgiving.

Proponents of the new season opener argue that beginning the season on a Saturday would help hunters who have difficulties find time to hunt as well as helping student hunters who don’t get the day off from school for opening day.

Those in opposition to the change say moving the season opener will complicate travel during the holiday weekend and interfere with many hunting camp traditions.

The change is slated to take place immediately for the 2019 deer season.