As a frequent visitor to Virginia and preparing to move into the Commonwealth, and currently licensed to carry a concealed firearm, I am very interested in seeing approval of CCW restored to state parks/forests.

The presence of areas in which it is not legal to defend one's self is an encouragement to criminal activity and provides criminals with the assurance that anyone encountered in the state forest will be unarmed. As can be readily documented, most heinous crimes are committed in places where law abiding citizens are not allowed to protect themselves with firearms. This fact speaks volumes.

By allowing concealed carry in these areas, we are not only allowed to protect ourselves, but the mere possibility that a potential victim is armed will serve to deter crime and promote the safety of ALL visitors, whether they choose to arm themselves or not.

Thank you,

Ed Shell