Under a new law just passed by the state legislature, members of the Washington National Guard can now get free hunting licenses.
The law, originally sponsored by Representative Brian Blake of Aberdeen and passed unanimously by the legislature, provides a free hunting license package consisting of deer, elk, bear, cougar, small game, and migratory bird permits (a $134.50 value) to all drilling members of the Washington National Guard.
This benefit applies to full time members of the Washington National Guard, those that drill on a part time basis, and members of the Washington State Guard.
Not surprisingly, the new law is quite popular among members of the Washington National Guard. According to Major Steve Beecroft, who was one of the first Soldiers to apply for his hunting license under the new law:
I think the new license option is a great way to thank Washington Guard members for their service and encourage them to stay in and serve.
In order to receive the free hunting license, eligible men and women must submit a printed application to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife along with:
Verification of military service
A copy of a Washington State driver’s license
A copy of a hunter education certificate from any state, unless the applicant was born prior to 1 January 1972
To download the application form and get additional information about the new free hunting license program for members of the Washington National Guard, visit the WDFW web site.
At this time, members of the National Guard must still pay for fishing licenses. However, there are currently efforts in the state legislature to change that.
Like what you see here? You can read more great hunting articles by John McAdams on his hunting blog. Follow him on Facebook The Big Game Hunting Blog, Twitter @TheBigGameHunt and on Instagram The_Big_Game_Hunter
WATCH
NEXT: SELF-GUIDED ARCHERY MOOSE HUNT IN WASHINGTON ON PUBLIC LAND
The post Members of the Washington National Guard Now Eligible for Free Hunting Licenses appeared first on Wide Open Spaces.