VA Paddling Bill Heads to Full Senate - More Calls Needed ASAP
Great News! Yesterday, Virginia's "Freedom to Float" bill passed the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources. The bill could now move to the full VA Senate for a vote as early as Tuesday of next week (1/28/14). It is more important than ever that every paddler that enjoys Virginia rivers contact state Senators.
The voting record from the Committee hearing is as follows:
- Yeas (supported SB 629): Watkins, McEachin, Petersen, Marsden, Black, Miller, Ebbin.
- Nays (opposed SB 629): Hanger, Puckett, Obenshain, Stuart, Stanley, Cosgrove
Please call or email VA Senators between now and next Tuesday. Let them know that you are a paddler and you support SB 629, the Freedom to Float Bill, and share why paddling rivers without fear of trespass charges is important to you.
Here are a few ideas for outreach priorities:
If you are a Virginia Resident:
- The most important thing you can do is call your own Senator.
No matter where you live:
- Call or email Senators on the Ag Committee and thank them if they voted for the bill or ask them to reconsider if they voted against it.
- Call or email Senators representing areas where you paddle, or any others.
Find their Contact Information here.
More information can be found in this recent AW article.
Thanks - make those calls and emails!