The proposed amendment to 4VAC10-30-170 is important for several reasons. Currently, any type of carry, open or concealed, is prohibited in Virginia State Forests. This is in direct conflict with regulations allowing lawful firearm carriage in other recreation areas, such as State Parks, National Forests, etc. A persons' ability to protect themselves or others should not stop at an arbitrary border or property line. Personal danger can, and does, occur everywhere. More law-abiding citizens get hemmed up due to patchwork gun laws than any other reason.

As with most gun laws, the good guys pay the price for criminals, who are guaranteed to NOT leave their illegal guns at the border of a State Forest, or any border for that matter. Again, as with most other gun laws, the State gets increased protection for honest citizens without spending an extra nickel, increasing the quality of life for all.  In these economic times, this is a no-brainer. I urge the quick passage of this amendment so that the citizens of our Commonwealth can safely enjoy our beautiful State Forests. Thank you.