HARRISBURG – Legislation authored by State Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) that would allow a possible expansion of hunting options for sportsmen has passed the state House without opposition.
The state Senate may now take up House Bill 263, which could possibly bring about the use of air-, chemical- or gas cylinder powered weapons for hunting.
“One of my constituents was the inspiration for House Bill 263,” Gabler commented. “It was pointed out to me how the technology associated with these rifles has improved to where they are viable, humane options for sportsmen.”
Gabler’s legislation would allow the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) to study these firearms and decide which models should be allowed and during which hunting seasons they should be permitted to be used.
“Eight other states allow use of these weapons in hunting whitetail deer and 23 states permit their use in hunting squirrels,” added Gabler. “Each individual state has made its own determination and I would like to see our commission have that same decision-making power.”
Questions about this event or any state-related matter may be directed to Gabler’s DuBois office at 814-375-4688, his St. Marys office at 814-781-6301 or Clearfield office at 814-765-0593.
