Feb. 04, 2016
HARRISBURG – State Reps. Neal P. Goodman (D-Schuylkill) and Keith Gillespie (R-Hellam) are preparing to introduce legislation that would expand Pennsylvania’s mentored youth hunting program to people ages 12 to 17.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission offers mentored hunting programs, but they are open only to children younger than 12 and those who are older than 18. It introduces them to hunting through the one-on-one guidance of an experienced hunter without committing to taking the hunter/trapper safety education course or buying a license.
Goodman, an avid hunter, said it makes sense to expand the program to people ages 12 to 17.
“The enjoyment of hunting is often contagious – you want to continue to participate in the sport once you are exposed to it,” said Goodman, “I’m sure that if we allow more young people to try hunting before they make significant commitments of time and money, more of them will become life-long enthusiasts and continue this great Pennsylvania tradition.”
Goodman and Gillespie, also an avid hunter and House Bill 1840’s other prime sponsor, are seeking co-sponsors for their legislation.
“Rep. Goodman’s legislation would allow us to further grow the sport we love,” said Gillespie, majority chairman of the House Game and Fisheries Committee. “Some activities take time to appreciate, and expanding learning opportunities in this way would expose the outdoors to a demographic we are unfortunately overlooking.”
Representative Keith Gillespie
47th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Scott Little
717.260.6137
slittle@pahousegop.com
RepGillespie.com