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by Joe Neville, KTA Executive Director
KTA has long advocated against expansion of Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, the National Rifle Association (NRA) and other groups have renewed the push to expand Sunday hunting opportunities. This year, our elected officials are likely to vote on this contentious issue, and the NRA is planning on “scoring” the officials on how they vote.
We’re asking you, our members, to contact your local House of Representatives and senator to let them know how you feel. You can find their contact information can be found at http://www.legis.state.pa.us. Some points to consider when contacting your elected officials:
- What is the economic loss to businesses when hunting reduces other forms of outdoor recreation, such as hiking?
- Not all hunters support Sunday hunting. In fact, only 53% of hunters support this expansion (PA Legislative Budget and Finance Committee, June 2005)
- Hunters are a very small portion of those Pennsylvanians enjoying outdoor recreation. The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources estimates that 25% of the population hikes, while fewer than 7% hunt. These numbers don’t include bird watchers, photographers, bikers, and others
- Nonhunters have not been surveyed on how they feel about Sunday hunting. What is the degree of support or opposition from the general public?
- How will increased trespass violations, accidents, and conflicts be handled? The Pennsylvania Game Commission does not enforce trespass laws as a primary offense
Please take a stand and contact your legislators today! |