Let’s give Pennsylvania’s military personnel a break

senators propose allowing all retailers to sell
reduced cost fishing/hunting licenses

Two Republican State Senators introduced legislation today that would make it easier for active-duty military personnel to purchase hunting and fishing licenses at a reduced cost.

Senators Bob Regola (R-39) and Bob Robbins (R-50) announced that Senate Bills 1256 and 1257 would amend the Game and Fish Codes by allowing all hunting and fishing license retailers, to sell special reduced-cost hunting or fishing licenses for active duty military, National Guard, and Reserve personnel.  Currently, the special licenses, sold for $1.00, are available only at Game Commission, Fish & Boat Commission, and county Treasurer offices.  The cost of a resident adult hunting license is $20 and $22 for a resident fishing license.

Senator Regola, a member of the Game & Fisheries Committee, said the intent of the legislation is to make it easier for service members to enjoy these recreational activities.

“Our legislation would make the purchase of reduced-cost licenses more convenient for military personnel who are on limited leave from duty -- particularly during the holidays when government offices are typically closed,” said Sen. Regola.  “We are simply allowing the sales of these reduced costs licenses by any issuing agent, such as retail stores.”

Senator Robbins, Vice Chairman of the Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee and a member of the Game & Fisheries Committee, said increasing the availability of the licenses is a way Pennsylvania can express its gratitude to its military personnel.

“The truth is, our men and women in uniform are on duty 24-7 in the defense of freedom around the world,” said Sen. Robbins.  “It is only fair and right that we take every possible step to ensure that they have the opportunity to relax and have fun when they come home on leave.  I sincerely hope we can quickly move these bills through the legislative process.”

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Contact:          Nathan Silcox (Senator Regola)        (717) 787-6063

                        Mike Hengst (Senator Robbins)       (717) 787-1322