Legislation Aimed at Trimming Bowhunting
Is Withdrawn in Pennsylvania
The Bowsite, an Internet site devoted to bow hunters, reports that Ed Wentzler, United Bowhunters of Pennsylvania (UBP) legislative chairman, has informed them that Pennsylvania Representative Godshall, under intense political and sportsmen pressure today withdrew HB 1265, a bill that would have severely restricted the bowhunting season in the state.
Rep. Godshall also asked UBP Vice-President Dave Kilroy to call off the bowhunting community that has rallied to defeat this bill, according to The Bowsite report. Kilroy asked Rep. Godshall to agree in writing that the bill would not be reintroduced at a later date, and he refused, citing pressure from his rifle hunter constituents.
"Realizing that we as hunters are vulnerable to defeat by fragmentation, and citing HB 1265 as the perfect example, Ed Wentzler would also like to announce the creation of the Pennsylvania Sportsmen's Coalition," the report states.
The Bowsite further reports:
"This newly formed, fast-growing coalition so far represents the interests of over 30 Pennsylvania organizations with an interest in protecting Pennsylvania's wild resources--and more are coming on board. Two of the most influential organizations that are now part of the coalition are the Pennsylvania Timber Industry and the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau. The mission statement for the coalition is simple-- organizations that take part agree to support ONLY scientific wildlife management practices, and agree to reject any and all attempts at wildlife management or manipulation because of emotional rhetoric and/or legislature."
