PA Hunting License Fees Could Double By 2025

By John Hayes / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The words “social” and “media” were rarely used together, and it cost 33 cents to mail a letter. In 1999, a gallon of milk was $2.88 and $5 got you a ticket to see “Star Wars: Episode 1 — The Phantom Menace.” And if you could drag yourself away from “The Sopranos” long enough to go hunting, a Pennsylvania adult resident license cost $19.

Just about everything is more expensive now, but the price of a hunting license is still $19 — the PALS automated licensing system deducts another $1.70 from your debit card.

The Game Commission has a leaner staff than in 1999, but personnel costs have increased by $35 million. Pennsylvania spends no general fund tax dollars on its wildlife commissions. The agency benefited from the boom years of shale gas leases, but most of that money, we’re told, has been spent.

In his spring financial report, executive director Matt Hough reminded legislators, without providing details, that if revenues were not raised services would be cut. He recommended a series of gradual license fee increases reaching $39 for an adult resident license in 2025. This week, Hough plans to press his case to the media as he continues to press the legislature.

Remember what you recently paid for a gallon of milk — the price may be relevant in 10 years.