Dec. 15, 2015
HARRISBURG – Rep. Jim Marshall (R-Beaver/Butler) today announced that his legislation to allow hunters with disabilities to use motorized wheelchairs has been signed into law.
“It was important to make a lawful distinction between a vehicle and these essential tools for citizens with disabilities,” Marshall said. “All Pennsylvania hunters should have the same opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.”
Act 76, formerly
House Bill 698, clarifies that the use of motorized wheelchair while hunting is not unlawful for those who are disabled, and that a firearm may be loaded while the device is in motion.
Under previous law, vehicles were allowed for use as hunting blinds for those with a disabled person permit. However, the hunter’s firearm was required to be unloaded any time the vehicle is in motion. There was no exemption for motorized wheelchairs, which meant someone who was disabled was required to power off his/her wheelchair every time he/she wished to load the weapon.
House Bill 698 received unanimous, bipartisan support in the state House on Oct. 28, and the same in the state Senate on Nov. 24. The law will become effective 60 days after being signed into law.
Representative Jim Marshall
14th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Morgan Wagner
717.260.6281
mwagner@pahousegop.com
RepMarshall.com/ Facebook.com/RepMarshall