HR 624

Subject

Historical elk population recovery and hunting tradition

Overview

This bill designates October 3, 2026, as "Pennsylvania Elk Hunt Day" to recognize the state's elk population history and hunting culture. The text notes that approximately 1,400 elk currently reside in north-central Pennsylvania, attracting nearly 500,000 annual visitors. It outlines the species' decline to extinction in the region by 1880 due to overhunting, followed by reintroduction efforts beginning in 1913 with animals from Wyoming and Yellowstone National Park.

The legislation details the regulatory history, including a hunting ban until 1921, the first regulated hunt in 1923, and a hiatus until 2000 when the General Assembly authorized hunts to resume. It highlights that since 2001, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has issued licenses for four distinct seasons, with over 55,000 applications submitted in 2024 for 140 licenses. The designation commemorates the upcoming first regular hunting season beginning October 3, 2026, which runs until October 11, 2026.

Key Provisions

• Designates October 3, 2026, as "Pennsylvania Elk Hunt Day" in Pennsylvania.
• Recognizes the historical trajectory of the elk population from extinction in 1880 to current levels of approximately 1,400 animals.
• Commemorates the reintroduction of elk starting in 1913 and the resumption of regulated hunting in 2001.
• Acknowledges the high demand for hunting licenses, citing over 55,000 applications for the 2024 season.
• Honors the specific dates of the first regular elk hunting season in 2026 (October 3–11).