In the near future, I will be introducing legislation that would allow hunters in Pennsylvania to use semi-automatic firearms for hunting, provided the firearm is limited to a three-round capacity.

Currently, the Pennsylvania Game Commission authorizes the use of semi-automatic rifles for small game, but prohibits their use for big game hunting, despite widespread acceptance and use of these firearms in other states. Many hunters already use semi-automatic shotguns for turkey and waterfowl hunting with a 3-shell limit. This proposal brings parity and clarity by applying the same 3-round standard to rifles for hunting game such as deer and bear.

This legislation would not allow high-capacity magazines or fully automatic weapons. It simply aligns our state’s hunting laws with the practices of many other states and provides hunters with additional options, particularly those who have physical limitations that make operating bolt-action or pump-action rifles more difficult.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation that reflects current firearm technology, improves accessibility for hunters, and maintains the tradition of responsible hunting.