Posted by
Jay Kern on Sunday, January 27, 2008 8:47:45 PM
I am a strong supporter of hunters and trappers in the state of Pennsylvania. I do not hunt myself, but there's nothing better than fresh deer bologna in my opinion. I will attempt to address some of the concerns that have been brought to my attention from speaking with constituents.
First, I am in favor of hunting seasons for all wild game animals if there is a viable population to support such activities. At the same time I am not advocating the hunting of endangered or protected species, although I'm not entirely sold on exacly how some of those animals end up on those lists. The Pennsylvania Legislature should stay out of the business of regulating hunting seasons and harvests except on the broadest of terms. (Such as where state income from these programs should be spent.) The state of Pennsylvania has a gaming commission to oversee most everyday issues.
Second, I support a zero net land use law. This in effect guarantees the acreage of state land available to hunt. For example, if the state determines that 40 acres in Lebanon County is deemed 'unfit' to hunt, that 40 acres must be guaranteed somewhere else in the state. For the record, I would not support a reduced acreage of State lands in Lebanon County, this is merely an example.
Third, I strongly support gun handling safety courses to be OFFERED IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS here in Pennsylvania. I acknowledge that guns can be deemed 'unsafe' in the hands of the ignorant, however with the proper training guns are a safe and effective tool for protecting and defending yourself and one's property and life.
I am also a gun owner, a member of the National Rifle Association, and I strongly support the right to own, the right to carry, and the right to use a gun to defend yourself. This is one right guaranteed to every citizen by the United States Constitution (and SPECIFICALLY by the Pennsylvania Constituition) which I feel is non-negotiable. Further gun controls beyond those already in place (and some that ARE in place) here in Pennsylvania do nothing but give politicians a photo op and the opportunity to grand stand for certain special interests.