A Families Afield First On Thursday, Pennsylvania celebrated its choice to become the first state to sign into law family-friendly legislation aimed at putting more hunters in the field. “Pennsylvania is well known for its hunting tradition. Not only is it an outdoor activity that brings families together, but it’s an economic asset for our state,” Gov. Ed Rendell said at a symbolic signing ceremony. The governor gathered with more than 100 hunters, lawmakers and officials from sportsmen’s organizations, including NSSF Senior Vice President Chris Dolnack, to recognize House Bill 1690, which Rendell officially signed into law in December. "This model legislation is a bold first step toward ensuring that our hunting traditions continue to be passed onto the next generation," said Dolnack. "All of our programs are aimed at helping to eliminate barriers to entry or to increase opportunities for participation. Our Families Afield partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation and U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance addresses both of these issues." The new law creates a youth mentoring program that will allow parents to introduce their sons and daughters to hunting before taking a hunter education course. Showing its strong support for the youth program, the state’s Senate voted 50-0, while the House cast a 195-1 vote to approve the bill.