Pennsylvania’s hunting heritage is one of the strongest in the nation. Our state has the second largest number of licensed hunters, with more than 840,000 licenses sold. However, hunter participation has declined in recent years. Affordability has become a challenge for many new hunters as the cost of hunting equipment and materials rise.
 
Further, due to the decline in hunters, deer populations across the state have grown beyond what our environment and communities can support. Damaged crops put our farms at risk, and overgrazed forests threaten habitats for all species of wildlife. Higher deer populations are also causing more animal/vehicle collisions on our roads, with 150,000 claims each year, the highest number of any state in the nation.
 
As fewer young people join our ranks of hunters, these problems will likely grow with the next generation.
 
To help support solutions to the issues highlighted above, I plan to introduce a bill that would make first-time hunters eligible for a free antlerless deer tag valid for one year after completing the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Hunter-Trapper Education Course.
 
Expanding opportunities for new hunters would make it easier for Pennsylvanians to connect with nature, participate in a long-standing tradition in our state, and play a role in responsibly managing and conserving our natural resources.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.