Shooting Sports Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Shooting Sports Month

WHEREAS, hunting, firearms, and shooting sports are part of the history, tradition, and culture of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, millions of Virginians, young and old, enjoy shooting sports as a family activity and weekend outdoor hobby every year; and

WHEREAS, increasing access toeducation and shooting sports provides opportunity to safely learn to shoot and to responsibly increase public participation in shooting sports and hunting; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is not onlyresponsible for the sound management and conservation of wildlife but alsoteaches principles of ethical hunting, firearms safety, and responsible firearm use; and

WHEREAS, in 2023, shooting sports enthusiasts contributed more than $20 million to wildlife and conservation efforts through the Pittman Robertson excise tax levied on firearms and ammunition while also supporting Virginia's economy with revenue and jobs; and

WHEREAS, in August 2024, organizations, businesses, and others will come together to recognize National Shooting Sports Month and to spotlight shooting sports activities enjoyed by millions of Americans and to continueto promote a culture of safety and responsibility; and

WHEREAS, Virginians are encouraged to enjoy time at the range to experience the excitement, education, and tradition of the shooting sports and celebrate the industry's contributions to the Commonwealth;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize August 2024, as NATIONALSHOOTING SPORTS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.