Pa. Game Commission Rejects Semi-Auto Rifles For Hunting

posted on April 1, 2017
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The Pennsylvania Game Commission last week rejected a rule that would have allowed hunters to use semi-automatic rifles in some of the most popular seasons throughout the state—just like is permitted in most other states.

Signed by Gov. Tom Wolf last November, Act 168 of 2016 eliminated the prohibition on the use of semi-automatic rifles for hunting and allowed for the Pennsylvania Game Commission to regulate these sporting rifles for all game species in accordance with season and bag limits. Yet the Game Commission’s Tuesday ruling essentially eradicated the efforts and progress made last session. 

As most other states have discovered, allowing hunters to use semi-automatic rifles does nothing more than expand firearm selection for the hunter afield. Ending the prohibition on semi-automatic rifle hunting would have provided Pennsylvania hunters the same opportunities and options enjoyed by hunters in 48 states.

Use Your Power!

NRA-ILA is alerting Pennsylvania NRA members, hunters and gun owners that the Game Commission is set to meet again in June for further rulemaking. Please contact the game commissioners and urge them to reconsider and pass semi-automatic rifle hunting for big game seasons at the next rulemaking meeting. Contact them by clicking here.

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