Opinion Question about Rifles?

I am looking for a good deer rifle. I have not really fired any rifles other than my .22 rifle and Yugo SKS. I am looking on recommendations for a good deer hunting rifle. I have heard the SKS is a good poor mans deer rifle, but I have also heard its illegal to hunt in some states with a semi auto. Because of this I'm considering trading my Yugo SKS for something like a Bolt action 30-30 or 30-06 but I am wanting suggestions. What would you do? Would you trade an SKS for another rifle? I would like to hear from experienced deer hunters.