I write as a citizen and taxpayer, currently resident in Fairfax County.  I support the proposed new regulation permitting the carrying of concealed firearms by holders of valid concealed handgun permits, but must insist that the regulatory language as presently drafted is too narrowly drawn. 

I hereby request a hearing on allowing the open carry of handguns State Forests, consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth.  Such a change would bring the regulations governing the carrying of weapons in State Forests into compliance with a formal opinion (08-043) published in September 2008 by the Virginia Attorney General.

I thank you for your consideration of my brief comments.

Respectfully,

Robert M. James

Centreville