The Pennsylvania Game Commission has given preliminary approval to a change that would allow the use of semi-automatic rifles for hunting.
The measure would require a five round magazine for all semi-automatic rifles with the total ammunition capacity limited to six rounds.
Since a new law took effect in November allowing the Game Commission to regulate semi-automatic rifles, many Pennsylvania hunters have voiced their opinions on the change. Half were in favor and half opposed to allowing semi-automatic rifles for big game with the main concern being safety. The results of a Game Commission study into comparable states that do allow semi-automatic rifles revealed no evidence of a decline in safety.
Pennsylvania is currently the only state that does not permit the use of semi-automatic rifles during any hunting season. The proposal will be up for a final vote at the Commission’s next meeting in March.
Written By: Ryan Saeler for the Butler Radio Network
