Families Afield Legislation Signed into Law in New Hampshire

Families Afield is an education and outreach program that helps states create hunting opportunities for those looking to enter sportsmen’s ranks by instituting a “try it before you buy it” approach.  House Bill 206 was signed into law by Governor John Lynch on May 9 and will become effective on January 1, 2012.

Introduced by state Representative Dennis Reed (R-Merrimack), HB 206 allows the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department to issue an apprentice hunting license to persons who have not completed a hunter education program or provided proof of a previous hunting or archery license. This license will allow newcomers to try hunting while accompanied by an experienced hunting mentor before they complete the state's hunter education course.  Nearly 600,000 apprentice licenses have been sold since Families Afield began. 

Joined by other members of the Families Afield initiative, the NRA has worked throughout the country to help bring a new generation of sportsmen to the field with the common goal of reducing barriers to hunting.  With an incredible safety record in all states that have adopted such measures, New Hampshire is the 32nd state to enact this critical pro-hunting legislation.

Thank you to all who contacted their elected officials in support of HB 206.  Your efforts truly make a difference!