PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB70

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB70

Introduced
1/14/25  

Caption

In game or wildlife protection, further providing for regulations.

Impact

The introduction of HB 70 could have significant implications for both deer hunting regulations and wildlife management in Pennsylvania. By formalizing the start of the antlered deer season, this bill may foster a more organized hunting schedule, which could assist wildlife officials in better managing deer populations. The intent is to align the hunting season with traditional practices while providing a sense of consistency for hunters planning their activities annually.

Summary

House Bill 70 seeks to amend Title 34 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes specifically regarding the regulations related to game and wildlife protection. The bill proposes that the regular antlered deer hunting season shall officially commence on the first Monday following Thanksgiving each year. This change aims to establish a uniform start date for hunters, potentially enhancing preparation and participation in the hunting season across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to generally favor the establishment of a clear, official hunting season. Advocates for HB 70 argue that having a set date promotes safety and enhances the hunting experience, encouraging responsible wildlife management practices. However, there may exist some contention among different stakeholder groups, including conservationists who might be concerned about potential overhunting or the timing of the season in relation to wildlife behavior.

Contention

While most discussions around HB 70 highlight its potential benefits, there could be concerns regarding its impact on deer populations and habitat if not monitored effectively. Opponents may fear that a fixed hunting date might lead to increased hunting pressures without adequate adjustment based on population health. Overall, the bill aims to standardize hunting practices while also introducing a necessary dialogue around sustainable wildlife management.

Latest PA HB70 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session HB70

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB708

In game or wildlife protection, further providing for regulations.

PA HB495

In game or wildlife protection, further providing for regulations.

PA SB1312

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for unlawful devices and methods and for restrictions on recreational spotlighting; providing for game or wildlife recovery permits; and imposing penalties.

PA SB67

In Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for organization of commission; in game or wildlife protection, further providing for report to commission officer and for surrender of carcass to commission officer; in hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, providing for hunting on Sunday and further providing for unlawful devices and methods, for the offense of trespass on private property while hunting and for hunting on Sunday without written permission; and, in special licenses and permits, providing for agriculture access permit list.

PA HB1894

In protection of property and waters, further providing for restrictions on transport, sale, importation or release of nonnative injurious fish; and, in game or wildlife protection, further providing for unlawful importation of game or wildlife.

PA SB1086

In game or wildlife protection, further providing for report to commission officer and for surrender of carcass to commission officer.

PA SB1087

In Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for organization of commission; in game or wildlife protection, further providing for report to commission officer and for surrender of carcass to commission officer; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for the offense of trespass on private property while hunting; and, in special licenses and permits, providing for agriculture access permit list.

PA HB2106

In hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, providing for temporary Sunday hunting authorized and for hunting and training on Sunday, repealing provisions relating to trespass on private property while hunting and to hunting on Sunday without written permission, providing for the offense of trespass on private land while hunting or furtaking and for the offense of hunting, trapping or taking game or wildlife without written permission and further providing for training dogs on small game; in special licenses and permits, further providing for field dog trials; and imposing penalties.

PA HB567

In permits relating to wildlife, further providing for definitions.

PA SB1203

In food protection, further providing for rules and regulations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.