The Pennsylvania Game Commission's Board of Commissioners meeting on April 12, 2025, featured significant discussions on youth hunting regulations, Sunday hunting legislation, and wildlife management practices. Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Pennsylvania National Wild Turkey Federation (PANWTF) and Safari Club International, presented their views on these pressing issues.

Abby Schierman, representing PANWTF, urged the Board to reconsider age restrictions on mentored youth hunters. She highlighted Pennsylvania's pioneering role in creating mentored hunting opportunities, which have been instrumental in recruiting and retaining hunters. Schierman emphasized the need to allow children under the age of seven to participate fully in these programs, noting that current restrictions hinder the ability of mentors to provide tags for young hunters. She called for the Board to remove these age limitations to foster a new generation of hunters.

In addition, Schierman expressed strong support for Senate Bill 67, which seeks to eliminate outdated laws that restrict the Game Commission's authority to regulate Sunday hunting. She praised the Commission's track record in managing hunting seasons and bag limits and expressed confidence that they would responsibly implement Sunday hunting if given the authority.

Brian Patel, president of the Pittsburgh chapter of Safari Club International, echoed the call for Sunday hunting, framing it as a matter of effective wildlife management rather than simply a scheduling issue. He argued that wildlife management should be based on scientific principles rather than public opinion or political agendas. Patel also advocated for collaboration between the Safari Club and the Game Commission to enhance conservation efforts and improve deer management processes.

Mark Widener, representing various local hunting groups, raised concerns about the Bundy opener and requested updates on studies related to bobcat and fisher harvesting in specific wildlife management units. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining habitats for small game and pheasants, particularly for youth hunting initiatives.

The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue among stakeholders about the future of hunting regulations and wildlife management in Pennsylvania. The Board's consideration of these topics will play a crucial role in shaping the state's hunting landscape and ensuring sustainable practices for future generations.