(Host) Vermont veterans serving in Iraq and Afghanistan have gotten an unexpected benefit from members of the Vermont House – the opportunity to bag a moose this fall.
Derby Representative Loren Shaw says the idea for the bill emerged when Congressman Peter Welch visited Iraq several months ago.
Welch asked Vermont soldiers if there was anything they needed or wanted from back home. One answer was clear – could Welch help find a way for veterans to get a moose hunting permit while they’re serving overseas.
The new bill sets aside five moose permits that would be allocated through a lottery system for the veterans.
Shaw says it’s one way that Vermont lawmakers can thank soldiers for their service:
(Shaw)"We must never forget the sacrifices that our men and women in the armed forces made over the years. Five moose permits are a very small token of appreciation for the commitment to both the state of Vermont and this great country of America."
(Host) The bill is expected to receive final approval in the House on Thursday. It will then be considered by the Senate.