Rendell signs into law Solobay bill aimed at curbing deer population.

HARRISBURG – Gov. Ed Rendell today signed into law a bill authored by state Rep. Tim Solobay, D-Washington, that expands hunting areas throughout Pennsylvania to help curtail the problems caused by urban deer populations.

The law opens areas throughout the state in which bow hunters currently aren’t allowed to hunt by decreasing the safety zone from 150 yards to 50 yards. However, the distance for hunting with a firearm remains at 150 yards.

Previously, only six counties were eligible for the decreased safety zone.

The Washington County Democrat said this law (H.B. 565) is important because it will help reduce extensive damage to vehicles, and the potential for injury and death resulting from driving-related accidents with deer.

“I am pleased that Governor Ed Rendell has recognized the importance this legislation will have in protecting our communities and reducing accidents,” Solobay said. “It is important that we safely reduce the urban deer population to a more manageable extent.”