Pls stop all animal experiments and cruelty. Someone has to speak and step up for those who cannot. Pls stop all cruelty Thanks

VaLCV encourages SUPPORT for HB1588 HB1588 (Sullivan) Electric Vehicle Rural Infrastructure Program and Fund; created. This bill creates the Electric Vehicle Rural Infrastructure Program and Fund, providing developers with grants covering up to 70% of costs associated with installation of EV charging stations in rural, low-income areas. The Fund is capped at $25 million per year. Reasons to SUPPORT HB1588: - Virginia has received $106 million in federal funds to set up charging stations along highway corridors, but the Commonwealth does not have funds set aside for EV charging stations in rural areas. - Rural tourism, park, and historic sites stand to benefit from co-location with charging stations which incentivizes travelers with EVs to visit (and stay for a while) at their site. - Rural residents who drive longer distances stand to benefit most from cheaper cost-per-mile gains associated with EVs, but lack of charging infrastructure remains a barrier to adoption.

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

Hi, Please consider providing all terrain wheelchairs at state parks in VA. As a double above the knee amputee this resource would be a game changer. It would mean really being able to explore all that our beautiful state parks have to offer. Please provide the tools many of us need to fully appreciate the natural beauty around us. Thanks, Bob

I support HB1588. Whether Virginia prepares for it or not, by 2035, the majority of new cars in dealerships will be ZEVs. Considering Virginia's tourism and geographical position athwart East Coast transportation arteries, the majority of vehicles on our roads will be zero emissions. Lets take sensible measures now to be ready.

Pls stop all animal experiments and cruelty. Someone has to speak and step up for those who cannot. Pls stop all cruelty Thanks

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

It's our responsibility to protect the ones that have no voice

I am heartened to see HB1722 is enjoying bipartisan support. This is not a partisan issue! All of our health and welfare is at stake. This bill is a brilliant, simple stop-gap measure that would give pause to mineral mining in Virginia. It does an end run around the bleak prospects of there being a much needed overhaul of Virginia’s current mining laws and regulations, which the HB2213 state study concluded are not sufficient to protect our health and ecosystems. The long sad widespread history of mineral mining poisoning water, land and air does not need to be repeated here. Let’s get this done and then work on putting more substantial protections in place. Thank you all for your support.

As a Virginia resident for the past 43 years, I rely on our gov't to protect us from harm and I have particular health concerns specifically. I moved to Central Virginia especially because of the beauty of the county in which I live and also for the healthy air and water. Over the years, we've been faced with challenges to our health. Our state and local governments have done a great job of addressing those and I am hopeful it will be the same in this current situation. I am writing concerning the study of the possible impact of gold mining here. At present, we don't have solid enough regulations to protect our water, air and health from gold mining impact. I know I, as well as many others, are so thankful to Delegate Simonds for sponsoring this bill that will help keep us safe. We need full support of this bill, please! Thank you sincerely.

VaLCV encourages SUPPORT for HB1722: HB 1722 (Simonds) Banning cyanide & cyanide compounds in mineral mining operations In 2022, the Commonwealth studied the potential impacts of gold mining. The study report, approved by Governor Youngkin, states that Virginia's regulations are insufficient to protect against those impacts. Of the impacts studied, of most concern were the impacts to Virginia's ground and surface water. Reasons to SUPPORT HB1722: This legislation protects Virginia's water from cyanide contamination associated with gold mining. Cyanide spills in mining are common and result in ruined drinking water, the destruction of ecosystems, and massive fish kills. Negative impacts to ground and surface water are more likely with the use of cyanide processing. This legislation stems from recommendations made by National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, who, after studying potential impacts of gold mining in Virginia determined "Virginia's regulations are insufficient to protect against the potential impacts of gold mining

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

HB1722 would protect people from a significant mining risk identified in a recent report by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and state agency study group. The report states in plain English that Virginia’s mining regulations are inadequate to protect public health and the environment. HB1722 would ban the use of cyanide in metal mining and processing and thus help protect wildlife and public health. The report Potential Impacts of Gold Mining and Processing in the Commonwealth strongly recommends amending and updating Virginia’s mining laws and regulations. It's available here: https://energy.virginia.gov/public/documents/Public%20Meetings/VirginiaEnergy_Potential_Impacts_of_Gold_mining_and_Processing_in_the_Commonwealth_Report20221201.pdf

Please support HB 1722, which bans the use of cyanide and cyanide compounds in mineral mining processes. The National Academy of Sciences and State Agency Committee on large-scale gold mining recently reported on the significant threats to Virginia’s water resources from this toxin. When cyanide is used in the gold mining process, it can then leech or spill from waste storage ponds. HB 1722 is bipartisan bill that will not only protect our water resources, but human health as well. Please pass HB 1722.

I am in strong support of House Bill 1722. As a lifelong resident of Virginia, I am deeply concerned about the peoples of the Commonwealth - our - access to and availability of safe drinking water. This bill would place a necessary restriction on cyanide use in mineral and metal mining in Virginia. This bill can protect millions of Virginians' drinking water from harmful - if not deadly - cyanide contamination. This bill is backed by a scientific study and subsequent recommendation of legislation from the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM). This group spent multiple years studying the potential impacts of gold mining in Virginia, resulting in this bill. It would be absurd not to allow this bill to be put into law. We all must drink water to live. It is fundamentally our life source. We must protect it. This can be done by supporting this bill (HB 1722).

I support banning the use of cyanide in mineral/gold mining. I would hate for cyanide from mining to contaminate the water that I drink from my well which draws from the groundwater here in Virginia. No one should have to worry about cyanide or any other harmful chemicals from mining going into their water.

I demanding that you protect our water stop the mountain valley pipeline from being drilled it will endanger people living there I am begging to protect our waters and lands as so important for endangered species and people. Concerned Citizen Ji Montgomery

I support HB1722. Invariably, mining chemicals leach into the environment.

Appalachian Voices is deeply thankful for HB1722, a common sense, protective bill that is in response to recent reports from the National Academy of Sciences and a Virginia State Agency Committee on the potential impacts from large-scale gold mining. As shared in the reports required by HB2213 (2021 session), the risks from large-scale gold mining include its processing procedures, which use cyanide. Those procedures and storage of toxic waste material would directly threaten the James River and its watershed, risking the drinking water supply for 2.7 million people. We ask that you please support HB1722 to ban the use of cyanide and cyanide compounds in mineral mining and processing operations.

As the coordinator of the Press Pause Coalition, I request that you please support HB1722. The Press Pause Coalition was established to ensure that Virginia adequately considers the realities of mineral mining before any projects like gold mining move forward. The National Academies' report on the potential impacts of industrial gold mining made it clear that the Commonwealth's regulations are deficient. The report recommended that "To protect against the potential impacts of gold mining, the General Assembly and state agencies should update Virginia’s laws and its regulatory framework." HB1722 is a good first step in addressing the Commonwealth's regulatory deficiencies in this area, particularly as the bill is being amended to ensure it does not interfere with current mining operations. Please vote in support of HB1722.

I urge you to vote in support of HB1722. In light of exploration currently occurring in Virginia for potential large-scale gold mining and knowing the results of the NASEM study, which found Virginia’s regulations to be inadequate for the gold mining industry, it is critically important to ensure Virginia’s drinking water sources are protected from cyanide, a well-known poison. Again, I urge you to support this logical and proactive bill.

I support this bill as the recent National Academy of Sciences Report and state agency report on gold mining determined that Virginia does not have the regulatory infrastructure to support large scale industrial mining. The use of cyanide to remove metalsi from crushed rock is a risky and dangerous activity that has not ever proven to be without consequences for water and the environment more generally. This is a vitally important bill and I completely support it.

It's our responsibility to protect the ones that have no voice

I fully support HB1722.

HB1382 | Gooditis | declawing cats is a barbaric process that as human beings, should NOT be inflicting on cats. HB1451 | Orrock | The majority of animals at pet shops are from mills. Pet shops should be eliminated period. HB1527 | Convirs-Fowler | the TNR program is important to stop unwanted cat and kitten deaths. HB1577 | Wachsmann | A rabid animal is still an animal and would require treatment if necessary before euthanizing and only a skilled veterinarian can make that determination and therefore would need to access in person. HB1721 | Clark | We need clean water. Human and animal alike. I also would advise for stricter regulations on all companies. Our water is disgusting. HB1984 | Kory | A water receptable for a pet should be cleaned twice and there should be more than enough to be provided and temperature specific. HB1985 | Kory | Pet shops; sale of dogs or cats. HB1989 | Kory | We are a civilized society and there is no need to hunt animals for sport or competition anymore. HB2000 | Kory | To be honest, there is no need for animal testing in this world. HB2331 | Campbell, E.H. | These roadside zoos and petting zoos are not regulated correctly and are rampant with health violations. HB2348 | Webert | I honestly do not understand why we are testing on animals. I'd say go directly to human trials. HB2417 | VanValkenburg | Dogs and cats are pets and should be treated with more respect and dignity than a lamp. HB2483 | Kory | There's no need to use such barbaric tools on elephants. In my opinion, I don't think elephants should be here in the US unless in a highly regarded zoo, such as the National Zoo, where there are veterinarians and conservationists who truly care about the animal.

Pls stop all animal experiments and cruelty. Someone has to speak and step up for those who cannot. Pls stop all cruelty Thanks

HB1811 | Oppose: As someone who enjoys horseback riding through the state, hunting season is always potentially dangerous and difficult to navigate. Perpetually open hunting season would have drastic negative repercussions on the equine industry throughout the state. HB1984 | Oppose: This sounds like a good idea but could create difficulties for people with livestock guardian animals who are already under fire from overzealous animal rights advocates. I would support this bill with more specific language. HB1985 | Support HB1989 | Strongly support HB1998 | Strongly support: Increasing native plant populations is vitally important for the preservation of biodiversity and our pollinator populations. Increasing native plants on public lands is a fantastic use of public resources (when money will be put towards plants or landscaping anyway) and will also serve to increase visibility and awareness. HB2096 | Strongly support: I'm concerned about removing a provision that prohibits movement, etc. of invasive plants but strongly support the remainder of the bill. Many people continue to buy, sell, trade, and plant known invasive plants because they're not officially listed in the state or because uneducated consumers request them. Many business (and arboretums!?!!) continue to carry and sell these plants for the same reasons. The state invasive plant list is woefully out of date. Actually updating and listing invasive plants as such would go a long way towards helping to fix some of these issues. Thank you for taking my comments into consideration

Please put an end to the senseless and cruel practice of wildlife killing contests in Virginia! This practice does nothing to control predator populations or protect game. It is barbaric: driven by bloodlust and bragging rights. Even the Virginia Department of Wildlife and sportsmen's organizations have condemned it. Please support this bill so that Virginia can join the other states that have wisely banned this practice. Thank you!

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

Please oppose House Bill 1989. In Southwest Virginia, coyotes are a tremendous problem. Last year, they killed one of our ostriches. We need to encourage more management of these animals. Who matters more to Virginia legislators? An activist in a far-away State or those of us here dealing with these animals and these problems on a regular basis? Jeff Archer Fort Chiswell Animal Park

Mr. Chair and Members of the Committee, Please oppose HB 1989 regarding the management of coyotes. The proposed legislation to restrict coyote hunting will harm us and our animals. Coyotes are predators that prey on livestock and pets and the problems that exist are recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture. Virginia benefits from current laws. The Department of Wildlife Resources allows a continuous open season for the hunting and trapping of coyotes "except on National Forest lands and Department lands." Coyotes have no natural predators and are only naturally threatened by the diseases they catch and carry such as rabies and distemper. If the population is not held in check it will only encourage the spread of these diseases. This effort shows a lack of practical experience. Coyotes are highly intelligent and it takes skill to successfully hunt a coyote. The predator contests are an essential tool in the tool box when it comes to coyote management. The current contests follow all local, state and federal laws and the hunters who participate practice fair chase. In addition, if there are concerns about the disposal of animals, the wildlife department should work with those holding the contests to create a solution or agreement. Banning the contests and caving to the pressure from animal rights groups will ultimately create bigger problems for Virginia. It is essential that the state allow these contests to continue. Please protect the farmers and pet owners of the Commonwealth! Sincerely, Heidi Crosky Virginia Animal Owners Alliance

Members of the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee, I respectfully ask that you support HB 1989, which would prohibit cruel wildlife killing contests in our state. These contests are inhumane, irresponsible, and unsportsmanlike. Wildlife management professionals and hunters agree - wildlife killing contests should have no place in our state. Please vote in favor of HB 1989 to protect wildlife and promote responsible conservation practices.

Comments Document

On behalf of the Humane Society of the United States' members and supporters, we strongly support HB 1989. Please find enclosed our written comments in support of this bill.

Comments Document

Please see the attached letter in opposition to HB 1989.

Comments Document

Dear Chair and Members of the House Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee: The Animal Welfare Institute, on behalf of our members in Virginia, submits these comments in support of HB1989, which would restrict coyote and furbearer killing contests. We respectfully request that you vote in favor of advancing this legislation. Wildlife killing contests are organized events in which participants kill animals within a certain timeframe for entertainment, prizes, cash, or other inducements. Teams compete in judging categories that often focus on the number of animals killed, the weight or the sex of animals killed, the particular species killed, or the smallest or largest body or body part of the animal killed. Contests frequently involve betting and end with a check-in or weigh-in of the animals, followed by a party where contest prizes are awarded. Afterwards, the carcasses of the animals are usually dumped away from public view. Contests in Virginia predominantly target native carnivores, and these events can result in hundreds of animals being wiped off a landscape in a single weekend. HB1989 would prohibit organizing, sponsoring, promoting, conducting, participating in, or soliciting participation in a contest, organized competition, tournament, or derby in which participants are offered cash, prizes, or other inducements of monetary value for capturing or killing coyotes or fur-bearing animals, which in Virginia includes foxes, bobcats, and raccoons. Virginia should join other states in banning wildlife killing contests because these events: (1) are cruel and violate fundamental hunting principles taught in Virginia’s hunter education program as well as the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which damages the reputation of Virginia’s sportsmen and sportswomen; (2) undermine modern, science‐based wildlife management principles and are not an effective wildlife management tool; (3) do not increase populations of game animals; (4) do not prevent conflicts with humans, pets, or livestock—and may increase them; and (5) the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources proposed in 2021 to add a new regulation, 4VAC15-20-260, to restrict coyote and furbearer hunting contests, and these contests have been banned in an increasing number of states due to growing public concern. The attached written comments address each of these arguments in full. Thank you for considering the attached comments. Regards, Johanna Hamburger Director and Senior Staff Attorney Terrestrial Wildlife Program Animal Welfare Institute

Please support House Bill 1989. I recognizing that regulated hunting can be a an effective conservation management tool when it is conducted properly, pursuant to quotas, tags, bag limits, seasons, and other regulations set by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Wildlife killing contests are something else entirely. They are stupidly barbaric and should be repellent to any thinking, feeling human being. Wildlife killing contests, which we for some reason have allowed to continue in Virginia, violate one of the seven core tenets of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation that states "wildlife may only be killed for a legitimate, non-frivolous purpose." Wildlife killing contests serve no conservation or wildlife management purpose and do not support or promote any conservation or management goals or objectives. Virginia wildlife is meant to be held in public trust by our state government and DWR - allowing the continuation of barbaric wildlife killing contests is a violation of that public trust. These grisly wildlife killing contests do not advance any legitimate purpose or serve any conservation or management objective. They simply and horrifically devalue life and encourage and reward thoughtless cruelty and violence. It is time for them to stop. Please end this disgusting practice in Virginia. Please support House Bill 1989.

I am writing in support of this bill to prohibit wildlife killing contests in Virginia. These events are extremely cruel, utterly wasteful, and fundamentally unsportsmanlike. Virginia is sadly the home to the largest wildlife killing contest east of the Mississippi. Billed as family events, these events offer cash and prizes, such as belt buckles and guns, for killing coyotes, foxes, and other fur-bearing animals in various categories - the most, the largest, the smallest, the mangiest, or some other useless category the sponsors devise. Following all the mayhem, the dead animals, by the hundreds, are dumped as refuse. These events should not be confused with bona fide, traditional hunting, which is grounded on the principle of fair chase. To the contrary, "hunters" in these contests routinely lure the animals with calls of their fellow foxes or coyotes in distress or the sounds of prey animals. The unsuspecting animals go to the hunter to be slaughtered, not for food, not for wildlife management, but for bloodlust. Indeed, Virginia's own Department of Wildlife Resources itself has soundly rejected any notion that wildlife killing contests provide any benefit to the public or other wildlife species, in stating that it had found "no scientific evidence to support claims that predator hunting contests reduce predator numbers, reduce livestock damage, or increase populations of game species." When the Department of Wildlife Resources requested public comment on a proposed rule to prohibit wildlife killing contexts in 2021, 78% of Virginians opposed the contests as a game of killing that disrespected and devalued life and made no use of the animals killed. Numerous states have prohibited these contests. We in Virginia should similarly cast a vote for civility and respect for nature over depravity and barbarism. This is a commonsense bill that reflects the common sense of Virginians. Please cast your vote to support this legislation. Thank you.

My husband and I greatly favor all the bills checked. Puppy mills, shooting contests against animals, control of selling and shipping noxious weeds, and the support of native plants on state owned lands, are all sensible, basic steps that should obviously be taken. They are all sensible and, indeed, "no brainer" first steps in controlling these problems.

I am very strongly opposed to this cruel and environmentally disastrous practice of allowing Wildlife Killing Contests. It is an extreme disgrace to Virginia and must be prohibited immediately. Please support HB 1989 Prohibiting Wildlife Killing Contests.

HB1383 | Anderson | Menhaden reduction fishing; prohibition. Without responsible stewardship of our state resources, citizens of our state will face negative long term consequences that impact far more than one commercial sector. Living marine resources are critical to local economies and lived experiences of your constituents. Please support the responsible stewardship by starting with a two-year prohibition while further investigation determines acceptable levels of exploitation. HB1989 | Kory | Coyotes or fur-bearing animals; prohibition of killing contests and competitions. Killing ought not be a hobby nor a community pass time. Killing contests and competitions are inhumane, and in a world increasingly populated by humans, the wild things needs protection to survive unending human encroachment, not further pressure on animal populations through wanton killing "for fun." Please support the prohibition of killing contests and competitions. HB1998 | Krizek | Native plant species; state agencies to prioritize use on state properties. The state must prioritize the use of native plant species as part of broader responsible stewardship efforts on state properties. Using non-native plants can have significantly negative consequences for the environment, for wildlife, and for future state efforts to control unintended non-native plant proliferation. Native plants, on the other hand, are proven to support native animal and insect populations while also improving the ecosystem. Please support this effort to prioritize the use of native plants on state properties. HB2042 | Shin | Animal testing; whistle blower protections created. Whistle blower protections are critical for enabling healthy institutions. If those with knowledge are not protected in exposing negligence, crime, or harm, then the incentive structures needed to improve our institutions will be missing, and we'll all suffer the costs of reduced institutional fitness. Please support whistle blower protections. HB2189 | Rasoul | PFAS; requirements to test, publicly owned treatment works, discharges into state waters. As scientific evidence regarding the detrimental impacts of PFAS on human health continues to mount, testing for PFAS is a critical first step towards preventing PFAS contamination and what actions will be needed to protect human health when PFAS exposure is detected. Please support requirements to test discharges for PFAS.

I believe all creatures 2-legged and 4-legged deserve respect to live without unnecessary pain and stress . I’ve personally handled complaints in regard to puppies purchased at pet shops and each complaint includes how much the pet is suffering with an illness, costing the animal unnecessary pain and discomfort and the pet owner expensive vet fees on top of the ridiculous cost of the pet. There are ways for pet shops to profit and succeed without putting a sick puppy as their way to make a living . Contest killing within the confines of a building is disgusting and sickening. We don’t live in barbaric times and I beg this bill passes. Thank you for considering

Killing contests have no place in todays society. We have huge issues with Violence and cruelty in our society. First is the idea of killing for cash and prizes teaches lack of empathy. They are killing for fun! This is proven to lead to violence to humans. Second is the fact the small predators are critical to keeping rodent populations in check. This is very important as diseases often spread through rodents. Killing for no reason other than fun is unacceptable by 90% of people in Virginia.

To have open season Year round would be a hardship for breeding and birthing season for does. I also do not want to have to worry about being able to hike with my dogs due to people being out with guys.

I demanding that you protect our water stop the mountain valley pipeline from being drilled it will endanger people living there I am begging to protect our waters and lands as so important for endangered species and people. Concerned Citizen Ji Montgomery

Please support this bill! This bill does not stop anyone hunting. How would anyone with any kind of morals or conscience advocate for a killing contest???

We fully support this bill. How barbaric are these "contests" that kill for fun - it's a bloodsport that serves no purpose other than to receive cash and prizes for brutally taking the lives of animals. Since 2015 over 60 of these contests have been held in Virginia - SHAME on us. This is not a family value, a wildlife management tool, or humane. When a nursing Mom is killed because she has the "biggest ears", her young pups are left to starve to death. Eight states ban this savage killing spree - MD banned it last year - and Virginia should be ashamed of herself for allowing this sort of "entertainment". At the end of the day, the animals are loaded in trucks (blood running down the sides) and taken to a landfill and dumped. We wouldn't tolerate any animal treated like this in a shelter - why do we allow it for wildlife.

HB1382: Dear Honorable Chair and Committee Members, Please support the prohibition of the declawing of cats. Declawing is cruel and only worsens problems with pet ownership. HB1406: Dear Honorable Chair and Committee Members, Please support the elimination of licensing fees for pet owners. Lower income citizens can be negatively affected by these fees and pet ownership provides much needed companionship for elderly and those with low to moderate income. HB1989: Dear Honorable Chair and Committee Members, Please support the prohibition of killing contests for coyotes and other fur bearing animals. Killing Contests are cruel and glorify violence. They can actually backfire and elevate populations, aggravating any problems that may be associated. HB2042: Dear Honorable Chair and Committee Members, Please support initiating protections for whistleblowers at animal testing and research facilities. It takes great courage to stand up for those that have no voice. These people should have protections against retaliation. HB2348: Dear Honorable Chair and Committee Members, Please support imposing Civil Penalties on Animal Research Facilities that choose not to comply with Federal Laws and Regulations. This is a sensible, common sense bill that would help guide these facilities toward a more lawful approach to these endeavors. This legislation is very much needed. Thank you so much, Charles T Woodson Richmond Va

I am in support of HB 1989 that prohibits wildlife killing contests. Our wildlife is already in dire conditions with climate change and loss of habitat. These barbaric killing sprees are adding to the horrific disregard for life that our gun culture promotes. It is unchristian and we should be condemning killing contests of any kind in a civil society.

I respectfully support House Bill 1989. I support lawful, regulated, fair chase hunting pursuant to quotas, tags, bag limits, seasons, and other regulations set by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), as when conducted properly, it can support conservation and wildlife habitat. However, as found by DWR as stated in DWR board meetings held in 2021 and as found by biologists and wildlife managers of many other state wildlife agencies, these contests and competitions serve no conservation or wildlife management purpose and do not support or promote any conservation or management goals or objectives. These contests are purely for the pleasure of the participants, and treat the lives and wellbeing of wild animals as expendable and worthless. These animals are unique individuals that feel pain and loss, have inherent value, and deserve to be treated with respect. These contests violate one of the seven core tenets of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which states that wildlife may only be killed for a legitimate, non-frivolous purpose. These contests do not advance any legitimate purpose, as they serve no conservation or management objective. Virginia wildlife is supposed to be held in public trust by our state government and DWR for the benefit of all citizens, and allowing these contests where wildlife is killed for no legitimate purpose is a violation of that public trust. For these reasons, I respectfully support House Bill 1989.

I strongly support HB1989 - thank you, Delegate Kory for introducing it. Killing contests are wholly unnecessary, are not in line with proper and effective wildlife management approaches, are callous and unsporting, and ultimately (and unfortunately) damage the reputation of *ethical* hunters (who are vital assets in helping manage deer populations, for example). Indiscriminate killing can cause unintended consequences. We should be entrusting our wildlife management to ecologists backed by the most current and accurate scientific data, not to people who desire to kill the most, the smallest, the biggest, etc. Please support HB1989.

It's our responsibility to protect the ones that have no voice

Please pass HB 1382 to prohibit declawing of cats. Declawing is the equivalent of removing the first finger joint of a human, is very painful, and can cause lifelong health issues for affected cats. This brutality needs to stop now.

I support both of these bills for the following reasons: HB1985- This bill puts stricter regulations on pet shops. However, Virginia needs to phase out the selling of animals in pet shops all together due to the overcrowding of animal shelters. HB1989- The killing of an animal purely for “sport” (ie: not an animal to be used for consumption) is just cruel and inhumane. It takes a sick individual to kill something just for fun. Killing contests need to be banned in Virginia.

Please see attached marked

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

I demanding that you protect our water stop the mountain valley pipeline from being drilled it will endanger people living there I am begging to protect our waters and lands as so important for endangered species and people. Concerned Citizen Ji Montgomery

The Piedmont Environmental Council is aware of an increase in transmission line expansion and new transmission line corridor planning. The total amount of new land disturbance may be substantial, with hundreds of miles of rights of way and a corresponding amount of new service roads under construction. Very often, transmission lines rights of way go straight up and down steep terrain, which increases the chances for erosion. This amendment to the statute reduces the site specific review of those roads and the potential impacts.

It's our responsibility to protect the ones that have no voice

I oppose this bill because utility companies should absolutely be required to obtain a permit for the discharge of storm water from construction activities. This allows the Commonwealth to keep track of where toxic runoff is coming from and what toxins are present in said runoff.

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

I demanding that you protect our water stop the mountain valley pipeline from being drilled it will endanger people living there I am begging to protect our waters and lands as so important for endangered species and people. Concerned Citizen Ji Montgomery

It's our responsibility to protect the ones that have no voice

support

The Virginia State Parks website states that our parks have something for everyone. All -terrain powered wheelchairs would provide disabled visitors with a better way to experience our parks. We should do everything possible to ensure that a disability does not diminish one's enjoyment of our parks. It's the equitable thing to do.

February 3, 2023 Good afternoon members of the Appropriations Committee. I am writing to request your support of HB2453, a bill that would provide for a pilot program bringing all terrain power wheelchairs to our state parks. Due to paralysis caused by a spinal cord injury, I have used a manual wheelchair for the past 25 years. I am a regular visitor at Mason Neck State Park, a place I treasure for the opportunities to see wildlife like bald eagles, owls, and osprey. Although Mason Neck State Park has several trails that are deemed accessible, the sad reality is that they are not useable to many people with mobility impairments. One of this park’s accessible trails, called Marsh View, is described on the park’s web site as “a .25-mile long trail with a stone-packed surface that ends at an elevated platform overlooking the upper marshes of Kane’s Creek.” I was eager to enjoy the view from that platform when I set out on Marsh View Trail a few months ago. Unfortunately, exposed tree roots, holes, rocks, and other obstacles made it impossible for me to push my wheelchair to the end of the trail. An all-terrain power wheelchair would allow park visitors with impaired mobility to cover more distance with greater ease, and to enjoy more of the numerous benefits offered by Virginia’s state parks. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Kris Gulden

I support HB2453 because if all terrain wheelchairs are found practical they will allow wounded veterans who must use them enjoy Virginia’s parks including Mason Neck which is close to Fort Belvoir’s veterans rehabilitation facility.

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

I am writing in support of the All Terrain Wheel Chair pilot program funding program for Virginia State Parks. This program would help increase accessibility in Virginia State Parks, so that everyone can enjoy access to our wonderful public lands

Please support Delegate Tran’s bill to study wheel chair access to state parks.

The Virginia Association for Parks Fully supports HB2453. HB2453 will open a whole new world to those currently physically unable to use and enjoy Virginia State Park trails. HB2453 greatly enhances and promotes Virginia State Parks ability to improve ADA accessibility to many underserved guests.

Please evaluate the feasibility of providing all-terrain wheelchairs in amenable state parks to enable a wider population to enjoy their many gifts. Thank you,

I am writing in support of providing all terrain wheel chairs for use in state parks. It would be wonderful if our state parks were more accessible to wheel chair users, who face so many barriers when trying to engage in activities that most of us take for granted. Spending time in nature can be a calming and peaceful experience, but only if you can access it easily. Please vote in favor of this bill.

I am a certified therapeutic recreation specialist representing Pursuit Adaptive Sports and Recreation and want to urge you to support HB2453. We are an organization of adults with physical disabilities who seek to enjoy sports and recreation in the same manner as those without disabilities. We also want to enjoy our state parks, for which our taxes fund, in the same way as other citizens. All terrain (AT) wheelchairs would allow those of us who use wheelchairs to roll along the trails with our friends and family members. The "accessible" trails in most of our state parks are not accessible to regular wheelchair users - they are full of broken pavement, roots coming through the pavement, often are muddy and present many other barriers. Please support this bill to at least pilot the AT wheelchairs to understand just how they would open up the state parks to all of our deserving citizens. Thank you!

Hi Please support the bill that would provide all terrain wheel chairs to state parks. This would make the parks more accessible to wheelchair users. Thanks

Please support the two-year pilot program to evaluate placing all-terrain wheelchairs in state parks. A number of states have already enacted AT wheelchairs in state parks and it has been very successful in meeting the needs of our citizens who use wheelchairs. If you have ever tried to take someone in a wheelchair to any of the "wheelchair accessible" trails you would understand how difficult it is to push the chair, not to mention, to ride in a chair while constantly being jostled. Let's try this pilot and determine what it is like to actually have an accessible state park. Thank you for your support!

I fully support the effort to make state parks more accessible and enjoyed by people with disabilities, especially those whose mobility depends on wheelchairs. Not only are parks meant to offer physical movement and exercise to all citizens, but parks' pristine surroundings and vistas help improve the mental and emotional disposition of those who visit. It's important that this bill allows the Commonwealth of Virginia to leave NONE of its citizens behind, especially some of its most vulnerable population, and especially those who need access to these kinds of environments the most.

Our Parks on Mason Neck are precious; so much so that they truly must be accessible to all users. Delegate Tran’s bill will go a long way towards making that goal a reality. I fully support efforts to ensure our fellow outdoor enthusiasts with disabilities can enjoy the rich resources on Mason Neck along with other members of the community.

I write in strong support of Delegate Tran's bill to establish a two-year pilot program for all-terrain power wheelchairs in state park. As a frequent visitor to both Mason Neck and Sky Meadows state parks, in contact with a friend who frequently visits Mason Neck in her wheelchair, I know first hand the physical challenges presented by hilly, rolling and uneven terrain in these two beautiful parks. The upgrading of park infrastructure to improve accessibility is happening gradually in both places, but that is an enormously expensive and time-consuming process. All-terrain power wheelchairs are a cost effective means of providing greater accessibility in state parks, over the short term. There are precedents for their publicly-funded use in several states -- states as diverse as Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota and South Dakota. According to one state park official in Minnesota, as quoted in a Washington Post story of November 8, 2022, "People have told us this is life-changing." In the interest of better, more accessible, more widely-used state parks, and expanded opportunities for a significant portion of park visitors, I encourage your active consideration of Delegate Tran's bill.

I writing to support bill HB 2453 introduced by Kathy Tran. The acquisition of all terrain wheelchairs for a pilot program in our state parks is an import step toward increased accessibility. I live within walking distance of Mason Neck State Park in Lorton. And am a frequent visitor and Board member if our Friends group. We have been working on increasing accessibility to our trails. While I can walk, many cannot. In walking two trails rated as accessible with a person in a wheelchair I became aware of the difficulty in pushing through roots,gravel, mud and dealing with slope. All terrain wheelchairs would encourage physical and recreational therapists to bring Wounded Warriors from nearby Firt Belvoir and others to the park to enjoy wooded trails and water views. Please support this pilot program. Our friends group stands ready to support the effort and expand the program if the pilot is successful.

Delegate Tran’s bill is a wonderful and creative way to support all those with mobility challenges, especially the very large contingent of wounded warriors at Ft. Belvoir. Disabled warriors and others can see only a small part of the beauty of Mason Neck from the road while in a vehicle or on a specialized bike. The vast majority of the natural beauty of Mason Neck State Park can only be enjoyed while on its trails offering forest, bay, meadow, and river views. Likewise, those are the only places where the park’s wildlife can be seen. As a veteran and decades long visitor to Mason Neck State Park, I wholeheartedly support the bill.

Access for all should be a no brainer when it comes to state parks. There really isnt anything else that needs to be said.

Last year I was injured due to a broken foot and I have continuous knee issues. I love to go hiking in the parks nearby my home on the weekends and bird watch but unfortunately during the time when my foot was broken and when my knee is immobile I cannot enjoy the parks and get outside. Having all terrain vehicles in parks would allow not only myself but also so many people with disabilities get out and enjoy our parks.

I think all terrain wheelchairs are a good idea for state parks, to help disabled citizens enjoy the peace and serenity of park trails and activities.

Delegate Tran's bill dovetails perfectly with the efforts of Mason Neck State Park and the Friends to improve accessibility at the park. There is no guarantee that the pilot program, if it is approved, would result in all-terrain wheelchairs being placed at the park, but every state park could benefit from them. At Mason Neck State Park, Kris Gulden, who is a wheelchair user, has attempted to travel on park paths and found that even those that are labeled as accessible are nearly impassible to wheelchairs. Also, having all-terrain wheelchairs available could be very helpful to soldiers and veterans at Ft. Belvoir's rehabilitation center

I think having adaptive wheelchairs in all state parks is an excellent idea!

I enthusiastically support Delegate Tran's bill. I am a frequent visitor and volunteer at Mason Neck State Park. I know that the park staff makes great efforts to keep the trails accessible, but all of the unpaved trails in the park are nearly impossible for a wheelchair user to navigate because of intrusion from roots and the grades. I am fairly sure the same holds true for other parks, and in particular state parks that are in hilly terrain. Placing all-terrain wheelchairs at Mason Neck would be very helpful to visitors. I am aware of one regular visitor to the park who is a wheelchair user, and I am sure there are others. The park is close to Ft. Belvoir, which has a large Wounded Warrior rehabilitation facility. The facility already uses the park for some events. Having all-terrain wheelchairs at the park would help advance their mission as well as that of the park.

Please authorize the pilot program to place all-terrain wheelchairs in state parks. . As Delegate Tran's bill notes, every state park could benefit from all-terrain wheelchairs. At Mason Neck State Park, Kris Gulden, who is a wheelchair user, has attempted to travel on park paths and found that even those that are labeled as accessible are nearly impassible to wheelchairs. Also, having all-terrain wheelchairs available could be very helpful to soldiers and veterans at Ft. Belvoir's rehabilitation center.

What a kind thoughtful thing to do, provide wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy our wonderful parks. Patty

On behalf of Delta Waterfowl and our members and supporters in the Commonwealth, I'm writing to support Delegate Edmunds' House Bill 2470 - legislation that would require the General Assembly to fully fund any revenue lost by the Department of Wildlife Resources for any legislation passed beyond July 1, 2023, that seeks to discount hunting and fishing licenses. The Department of Wildlife Resources is primarily funded through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, combined with federal excise taxes from the sale of firearms and ammunition. Importantly, state fish and wildlife agencies must receive a net revenue of $2.00 from each license sale to report a certified license holder which qualifies for additional federal funds. On average, each certified hunting license brings the state an additional $26 and each fishing license brings in $10 of federal aid. When license fees are eliminated completely, states lose out on this additional revenue in addition to the loss of the original cost of the license. When legislation is passed that gives discounted or free licenses, the burden falls on the Department of Wildlife Resources to make up the difference in lost revenue. This can severely limit their ability to effectively manage healthy fish and wildlife populations that all residents of the Commonwealth enjoy. This legislation is a commonsense approach to ensuring the Department of Wildlife Resources will have the funds they need to continue to do the good work they do on behalf of all Virginians, and it follows the lead of neighboring states that have already passed similar legislation. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully, Cyrus Hunter Baird Senior Director of Government Affairs Delta Waterfowl Foundation