Expansion of Sunday Hunting in Pennsylvania Sparks Debate
The Pennsylvania Game Commission has announced the expansion of Sunday hunting for three weekends this fall, allowing hunters to pursue various in-season game. On November 17, November 24, and December 1, hunters can hunt deer, bear, and other permitted species, although turkeys and migratory game birds are off-limits. Hunters wishing to hunt on private land need to obtain written permission from the landowner.
Despite the temporary allowance, Sunday hunting remains a contentious issue in Pennsylvania. The state has a historical ban on Sunday hunting, which is rooted in “blue laws” dating back over 200 years. Current legislation allows limited Sunday hunting on specific dates, a law that was enacted in 2019 following significant lobbying efforts from hunting advocates.
There is renewed momentum in Harrisburg to lift the overall ban on Sunday hunting, driven by concerns from farmers regarding wildlife-related crop damage. Farmers like Mark Duda, who have faced significant losses due to deer, have changed their stance, now supporting expanded hunting opportunities. Recent legislative efforts, including proposals from lawmakers like state Rep. Mandy Steele and state Sen. Dan Laughlin, aim to empower the Game Commission to regulate hunting dates, paving the way for more consistent access to hunting on Sundays.
However, this potential expansion faces opposition from non-hunting groups who emphasize the need for a day free from hunting activities for outdoor recreationalists, such as hikers and horseback riders. Advocates for outdoor recreation argue for safety and access to enjoy the state’s natural resources without the risk posed by hunting.
As the debate unfolds, the Game Commission maintains that the addition of Sunday hunting days in 2019 has not resulted in safety issues, highlighting a record of no incidents involving non-hunters since the changes were made. The ongoing discussions reflect a larger trend in state politics, where local agricultural needs and recreational rights are increasingly intertwined.
PA GAME COMMISSION ISSUES REMINDER ON SUNDAY HUNTING
Officials with the Pennsylvania Game Commission are hopeful that Sunday hunting restrictions will be lifted ne...
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