02/27/2008
Virginia Removes Youth Hunting Restrictions
RICHMOND, Va.— The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and its partners are celebrating the passage of House Bill 1175 in the Virginia legislature. By signing the bill into law, Governor Tim Kaine creates more opportunity for youth hunters, and helps ensure that The Old Dominion's rich outdoor legacy continues to thrive.
The new law establishes a two-year apprentice hunting license that allows newcomers to take to the field with a licensed adult hunting mentor prior to completing a hunter education course. HB 1175's enactment marks another victory for the Families Afield initiative, a program that helps remove legal barriers for youth hunting.
The NWTF has led the charge in protecting our outdoor traditions, along with its partners, the National Shooting Sports Foundation and the U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance.
"While hunting is already an extremely safe sport, mentored youth hunters are among the safest in the field," noted Ronnie Lambrich, NWTF Virginia state chapter president.
Lambrich added that the NWTF's outreach programs such as JAKES, Women in the Outdoors, and Wheelin' Sportsmen will also benefit from the new law. The programs are designed to engage kids, women, and people with disabilities in outdoor activities.
"This law is going to help all people experience the wonders of the outdoors, and we're very pleased to see this come to fruition," said Lambrich.
Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries Board Member Sherry Crumley praised the cooperation of all parties involved, including support by the National Rifle Association and National Sportsmen's Caucus.
"None of this would have been possible without the NWTF and its partners," Crumley said.
Crumley also commented that today's young conservationists are tomorrow's stewards of the land.
"By bringing more youth afield, we're making sure the future of wildlife is in good hands."
To date, 22 states have passed legislation similar to Virginia's. Data from six of those states show that apprentice hunting programs introduced more than 35,000 young people to America's outdoor tradition of hunting.
"The NWTF's grassroots network of volunteers in Virginia should be commended for their work in the passage of this legislation," said Rob Keck, NWTF CEO. "Their dedication to creating opportunities for new hunters has paid off."
