New Georgia law allows fluorescent pink hunting gear

As of Tuesday, July 1, House Bill 167 is now law.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Hunters in Georgia are about to see a colorful change in their hunting gear.

As of Tuesday, July 1, House Bill 167 is now law, which means they can now wear fluorescent pink hunting outer garments. This provides hunters an alternative to the standard orange vests.

Erin Paulk, a game warden with the Georgia DNR Law Enforcement Division, says safety and visibility are key reasons for the new bright and vibrant pink color.

“Adding that pink is another option that’s very visible in the woods, because every day you’re not going to see something this blaze pink out there,” she said. “So, the point is to be able to see other hunters in the woods, especially during firearms deer season. A lot of times they’re out there with high-powered rifles and shotguns.”

Hamp Dowling, owner of Eagle Gun Range, says safety must be top of mind regardless of the new option available to hunters.

“There are people that aren’t hunters,” Dowling said. “They’re just shooters. They go out in the woods, and they haven’t had a whole lot of training, but it pays to wear this in the woods.”

Paulk says no matter the color you choose to wear, it must be 500 square inches. And she says if you’re spotted without it on, it will result in a citation.

“I think it’s a great addition,” he said. “Any time we can add common-sense options that others can enjoy, I think its great.” 

While many local stores are still awaiting their stock of the pink vest, they are expected to have them available before the firearms hunting season kicks off in October.

Georgia now  joins a handful of states that allow the use of pink hunting gear.