I SUPPORT the proposed amendment to 4VAC10-30-170

Please carefully consider the positive impact of enacting the proposed amendment to 4VAC10-30-170.  Allowing the lawful carry of firearms in state forests would make them consistent with other state and national institutions like state parks, national parks, and national forests. The intent is not to turn these valuable resources into "gun shows", but rather to give law-abiding citizens the ability to protect themselves and their families from those who would seek to do them serious harm. Restricting firearms rights will not restrict crime. Criminals who do not care about the laws against robbery or murder will not care about the laws against posessing a firearm. Only the lawful will obey those laws, laws that leave the lawful unprotected. Please consider carefully whether or not you are willing to support leaving them unprotected.