As previously reported, Governor Youngkin has been on a roll, signing over 100 bills into law since he first took office. One of his more recent ones should please the hunter’s in Virginia, as it will permit hunting on Sunday, with a small catch. (RELATED: Youngkin Signs Even More Bills Into Law, Now Over 100)
Previously, Section 29.1-521 of the Code of Virginia had stated that Wildlife Management Areas and National Forests were open to hunters every other day of the week, except Sundays. Senate Bill 8 was introduced by Sen. John Chapman Peterson and signed by Governor Youngkin will take effect on July 1, 2022, and will permit hunting on Sunday, so long as it takes place more than 200 yards from a place of worship.
“This legislation encourages Virginians to take full advantage of the many outdoor opportunities our great Commonwealth has to offer,” Youngkin said in a statement. “This legislation will open up new opportunities for hunters to enjoy the sport they love.”
Many are expected this law to bring with it new funding for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, and hopefully more hunters, as Virginia’s deer population continues to grow.