HARRISBURG – Legislation authored by state Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) that would allow the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) to examine expanding firearm options for Pennsylvania hunters has been signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf. House Bill 263, which passed both chambers of the General Assembly with bipartisan support, becomes Act 168 of 2016.
“One of my constituents from Elk County was the inspiration for this legislation,” Gabler commented. “He brought to my attention how technology associated with air- and gas-powered rifles has improved to where they are viable, humane options for sportsmen.
“I appreciate the efforts of my Senate colleagues, who amended the original bill to add semi-automatic firearms for consideration. The PGC will now take a look at each of these types of firearms as a viable option for certain hunting applications, which would bring Pennsylvania in line with many other states.”
Gabler’s legislation would give the PGC the authority to regulate and allow the use of these additional weapons during specific seasons or for specific species. He says these types of firearms are popular among young hunters and new participants in the sport.
“It’s important to note Act 168 will give the commission the option of allowing these firearms to be used for hunting,” stressed Gabler. “Governing bodies that regulate sportsmen’s activities in other states, including some of those that border Pennsylvania, already allow their hunters to use these types of rifles in the field. We are moving a step closer to doing likewise.”
Questions about this legislation 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.