I am thankful that the Commonwealth is accepting public comment when considering amendments to regulations. I am asking that the Virginia Department of Forestry amend their Administrative Code to allow law-abiding Virginians with valid concealed handgun permits to carry in State parks. I spent many summers in State parks as a child in the mountains and was always concerned with being out in the wild. My family always stayed in a tent and would often hear wild animals walking around the campsite while we were trying to sleep. I would be very concerned about walking a mountain trail with my family without protection from wild animals that could attack. A large rabid animal would not be easily fought off and could cause great harm. Concealed permit holders have great respect for the law as a whole. Many people think that more guns mean more crime, but the opposite seems to be true. Crime rates have dropped in areas where criminals know law-abiding citizens will defend themselves. Thank you for taking the time to hear my opinion.