HARRISBURG, PA – January 29, 2026 − Senator James Andrew Malone (D-36, Lancaster) has introduced new, bipartisan legislation to encourage more first-time hunters and reduce crop damage from deer overpopulation. His bill, SB 1142, would reduce barriers for new hunters by guaranteeing them a free antlerless deer tag for one year upon completion of the Pennsylvania Game Commission Hunter-Trapper Education Course and purchase of their first standard hunting license.
“Hunting is an important tool for conservation and crop protection here in Pennsylvania,” said Senator Malone. “Pennsylvania, and Lancaster County in particular, have a rich tradition of hunting and fishing. As minority chair of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee, I want to see that successfully passed down to future generations.”
“I also grew up hunting for meat, so I know firsthand how valuable it can be as a source of healthy food for families. I’m hopeful my legislation can help reduce a barrier to hunting for young people and help more people of all ages experience the joy of hunting for the first time.”
Similar to national trends, Pennsylvania has seen a decline in the total number of hunters since the 1980s. However, Lancaster consistently ranks among the top counties statewide for hunting license sales, with 38,145 sold in 2025, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
A standard hunting license in Pennsylvania includes one antlered deer tag, one fall turkey tag, one spring turkey tag and small game hunting privileges for one license year. Antlerless deer tags must be purchased separately during a specific window of time.
By removing the cost and complexity of securing an antlerless tag, Senator Malone’s bill aims to make it easier for new hunters to harvest their first deer. The bill also aims to reduce crop damage and the other negative impacts of deer overpopulation by increasing the total number of antlerless deer harvested statewide.
To learn more about hunting and trapping licenses and permits in Pennsylvania, visit the PA Game Commission’s Licenses and Permits webpage.
To get started with hunting, find a Hunter-Trapper Education Course near you.
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