Virginia!

I would like to comment in support of the proposed ammendment to Virginia State Forest Regulation 4VAC10-30-170 that includes the verbiage, "No person shall bring into or have in any forest any explosive or explosive substance, except commercial sporting firearms ammunition; explosives, explosive substances and firearms of all types are prohibited in any portion of a forest assigned to the Department of Forestry, for administration as a recreational area. This regulation shall not apply to the carrying of concealed handguns within state forests by holders of a valid concealed handgun permit issued pursuant to § 18.2-308 of the Code of Virginia."

I feel the specific statement, "This regulation shall not apply to the carrying of concealed handguns within state forests by holders of a valid concealed handgun permit issued pursuant to § 18.2-308 of the Code of Virginia."  is appropriate, and supports the Constitutional rights of the people of the Commonwealth.  I respectfully request that the citizens' right to self-protection be preserved by this amendment, and that proposed verbiage be approved to ensure these rights.

I feel that such an amendment will not only deter potential criminal activity in the secluded State Forest System, but will also increase the use of the wonderful recreational opportunities that are available in our beautiful State Forests.  Both armed and unarmed citizens will reap the benefits of regulations that tell the criminal element that they are not welcome, nor safe in carrying out their nefarious activities within the State Park System.  The State Forests are for the people, and we should not be afraid to enjoy them; regulations should not serve as public notice to criminals that the users of the State Parks are easy victims!   In my mind, the benefit of this amendment is not simply the right to carry a concealed firearm for protection in the State Parks, but moreso, the crime deterence provided by a public regulation that informs criminals that they are not safe from immediate retribution if they decide to use the peaceful seclusion of the State Forests to their advantage in victimizing the peaceful citizens of Virginia. 

Very Respectfully,

Josepg G. Dennison