Spark It Up!!!: Hunter Safety

In Virginia you need to complete a Hunter Safety class to get a hunting license. I had never given this issue much thought because this class was taught in High School when I attended. The issue was brought up to me this fall by a friend who's wife was interested in hunting. He complained about her having to obtain this permit to get her license. There are classes everywhere and they are free, but to a married couple with kids attending can be inconvenient. I will add you can take the class online if you choose too.

Both HB1175 and SB617 address that problem with a apprentice hunting license. The summery from Richmond Sunlight for SB617 reads

Apprentice hunting license. Authorizes the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to issue an apprentice hunting license. This license would be issued in lieu of the current state resident or nonresident basic hunting license. It is a one-time license that expires one year from the date of purchase and does not require the licensee to complete a hunter education course. The fee for obtaining the license would be $10 for residents and $20 for nonresidents. The purpose of the bill is to extend limited hunting privileges to persons interested in learning about hunting sports.

Great idea! I am sure there are some folks that oppose this. I have family and friends who think the whole licensing to hunt and fish is ridiculous. In my opinion the money I pay for the licenses is the best entertainment deal in the world. The fees in Virginia are reasonable and unless the funds are raided by the governor they go to the enrichment of the sports. For a Mother or father to be able to teach their kids to hunt instead of having them take a class is priceless. I hope this passes is short order.