I fully support allowing the holders of concealed carry permits to be permitted to carry firearms into state forests. Not only to protect themselves from persons with mal intent, but more importantly to protect themselves from wild animals. With the increase in populations of bear and coyote, as well as the ever presence of poisonous snakes, it should be permissable for law abiding Virginians to have the ability to protect themselves and fellow outdoorsmen from dangerous animals. To me it seems only common sence to carry a firearm while hiking or camping in the wild backwoods of Virginia, and all of America.

I ask that you please support legislation allowing firearms in our state forests.