Senate Approves Bill to Ensure Sportsmen’s Rights are Protected

HARRISBURG - Legislation sponsored by Sen. Greg Rothman (R-34) to align the Pennsylvania Game Code with the U.S. Constitution passed the state Senate unanimously today after receiving the same support from the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee last month.

Title 34 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statues (Game Code) contains sections indicating it is unlawful to refuse to answer questions from representatives of the Game Commission. This is a violation the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article I Section 9 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, which ensure no person may be "compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself" and "he cannot be compelled to give evidence against himself."

"Our Fifth Amendment rights are not surrendered when engaging in recreational or sporting activities," Rothman said. "The Pennsylvania Game Code must be amended to prevent any ambiguity on this matter or abuse of power."

Senate Bill 518 removes these portions of the statute to ensure sportsmen's constitutional rights are protected.

The measure has been sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

CONTACT: Morgan Wagner