Senators Hail Court Ruling as Victory for PA Property Owners

HARRISBURG - Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41), Senate Game & Fisheries Committee Chairman Greg Rothman (R-34) and Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) issued the following statement regarding the Pennsylvania Supreme Court's decision on Tuesday in favor of the Punxsutawney Hunting Club and the Pitch Pine Hunting Club:

"Every Pennsylvanian deserves to feel safe and secure on their own property, and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court was right to uphold the strong privacy and property protections provided by our state constitution. This ruling is a major victory that correctly overturns the 2007 decision in Commonwealth v. Russo and puts needed restrictions on the use of warrantless searches.

"Game Commission Officers no doubt have an important and dangerous job in enforcing game laws, which we certainly respect. However, it is now clear the Pennsylvania Game Commission must also respect the lawful rights of property owners. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court's unanimous decision is a tremendous win for private property rights across the commonwealth."

CONTACT: Kate Flessner (Sen. Pittman)
CONTACT: JoAnna Cameron (Sen. Rothman)
CONTACT: Chris Carroll (Sen. Laughlin)