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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Mike Hanna |
  
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Hanna supports increased penalties for poaching, other game violations
HARRISBURG, Sept. 22 – State Rep. Mike Hanna, D-Clinton/Centre, said he supports legislation that would combat the growth of poaching and other serious game law violations.
The legislation (H.B. 2205) proposes increased fines, terms of imprisonment, periods of license revocation and grading of offenses for violations of the state’s game laws. It would bring Pennsylvania's penalties in line with those of neighboring states.
Hanna said the measure was introduced in response to the increasing number of poaching violations in Pennsylvania, including the multiple taking of threatened and endangered species and big-game animals.
"The current penalties are too lenient in the eyes of prosecutors, law enforcement officers and many members of the outdoor community," Hanna said. "Killing animals unethically has a negative impact on the public's perception of hunting."
Hanna also said he opposes a provision in another bill (H.B. 747) that would limit enforcement powers of deputy wildlife conservation officers to state-owned lands. Currently, they may enforce game statutes in any location.
"WCOs are a critical part of effective law enforcement," Hanna said. "Limiting their powers is a move in the wrong direction."
House Bill 2205 is currently under consideration in the House Game and Fisheries Committee.
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