I am writing in favor of this legislation and the peace of mind it would provide someone like myself when going into Virginia's State forests. We are allowed to defend ourselves outside of our State forests but why would we not be able to do the same inside our forests? There have been some cases of people who have felt the need to disrupt life and breath conflict and therefore putting those of us who try to say off the radar and out of harms way directly in its path. I would like to know that when I go to enjoy a day in nature that I can protect myself against whatever may decide to cross my path be it man or beast. I feel that this legislation would give a person like me a fighting chance to protect myself and come out alive if the need ever arose. Please think of us that try to do things by the book and need you to approve this bill so that we can all have that fighting chance to survive. Thank you for all the time and effort put into this bill. 

v/r,

M. Buterbaugh