SOLANCONEWS.com -- Cutler's Commentary

Cutler's Commentary: New Hunting Laws Enacted This Year
By Bryan Cutler, State Representative, 100th Legislative District
HARRISBURG -- With Pennsylvania’s fall hunting season under way, I wanted to make you aware of some new laws that could increase your chances of bagging game this year.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner and turkey season in progress, Pennsylvania turkey hunters will have a new advantage in snaring these sly birds. A law passed this year permits the use of dogs to scatter flocks and make recoveries. The use of dogs in turkey hunting is an accepted practice in 24 other states.

As of September 1, those hunting for furbearers, which include coyotes, foxes, bobcats, raccoons, skunks, opossums and weasels, are permitted to use gun-mounted lights. It is important to note that the use of lights that project laser-light beams are still prohibited.

Hunters may find it easier to get permission to hunt on private lands now that landowners are better protected from liability for any hunting injury that may occur on their property. This could provide hunters with greater access to herds and flocks, and private landowners with greater assurance that they will generally not be held liable when allowing access to their land for hunting.

Finally, those bow-hunting or spotlighting are now permitted to carry handguns with the appropriate county concealed weapons permit. According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, those holding only a Sportsman’s Firearms Permit may not carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle, and may not carry a handgun while bow-hunting or spotlighting.

I am hopeful that these new hunting laws will enhance your hunting experience this fall and make for safer hunting. If you have any questions about hunting laws and regulations, feel free to contact my office at (717) 786-4551.

Editor's Note: Cutler's Commentary is a monthly column, written by Rep. Cutler.

Past Articles:
Cutler's Commentary: Are Gun Rights in Danger in the Commonwealth?
Cutler's Commentary: Turkey Hunting With Dogs Has Its Day
Cutler's Commentary: Wishing You an S.O.S. – Summer of Safety!
Cutler's Commentary: A Thank You to Those Who Keep Society Moving
Cutler's Commentary: Hoping to Keep a Deer Friend
Cutler's Commentary: Seeking Citizens' Suggestions
Cutler's Commentary: A Review of My First Month in Office