Beaver County News

Sens. Greg Rothman and Elder Vogel, Jr. have introduced a package of bills aimed at addressing agricultural crop damage and expanding hunting opportunities in Pennsylvania. The "Ag Freedom Package" is designed to give agricultural producers more freedom to mitigate crop damage on their farms while increasing hunting opportunities for sportsmen.

Rothman, as chair of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee, emphasized the need for these changes, stating, "A recent hearing shed light on increasing crop damage by wildlife and the negative impact that damage has on Pennsylvania farmers. The good news is farmers and hunters can both be part of the solution. These bills help farmers more effectively address crop damage, while increasing hunting opportunities for sportsmen. A true win-win."

Vogel, who chairs the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and is a farmer himself, highlighted the personal impact of wildlife-caused crop damage, saying, "Wildlife-caused crop damage is a multifaceted issue that continues to affect our farmers and their bottom lines due to the amount of bushels lost each year because of the damage caused by deer in their area. I’m glad to be partnering with Senator Rothman on this legislative package and know these bills will benefit both Pennsylvania farmers and hunters alike."

The Ag Freedom Package consists of four bills aimed at addressing crop damage and expanding hunting opportunities in a way that protects private property rights. The package has been referred to the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee for further consideration.

For more information on the Ag Freedom Package, visit senatorrothman.com.