In response to the Virginia Department of Forestry accepting public comment on the proposed amendment to Virginia State Forest Regulation 4VAC10-30-170, which would allow concealed carry permit holders who possess a valid permit to carry a concealed handgun for self-defense within Virginia's state forests.

The proposed language is underlined below:

4VAC10-30-170. Explosives, fires, etc.

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.

AS I AM UNABLE TO ATTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING ON THIS PROPOSED RULE CHANGE, please be advised that I strongly support this rule change.

Ed Hauswald

2476 Five Points Road

Marshall VA 201115