HARRISBURG – The PA Senate unanimously approved a measure sponsored by Sen. Greg Rothman of Cumberland, Dauphin, & Perry Counties to align the PA Game Code with the U.S. Constitution. Title 34 of the Game Code contains sections indicating it is unlawful to refuse to answer questions from representatives of the Game Commission. That is a violation of the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article I, Section 9 of the PA 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.” Rothman said our Fifth Amendment rights are not surrendered when engaging in recreational or sporting activities. The PA Game Code must be amended to prevent any ambiguity on this matter or abuse of power. Senate Bill 518 removes those portions of the statute to ensure sportsmen’s constitutional rights are protected. The bill has been sent to the PA House.
SEN. GREG ROTHMAN