The State game, fish and dog laws have been amended many times; since the adoption of the Game, Inland Fish and Dog Code in 1930 and the Commission of Game and Inland Fisheries has adopted and amended numerous regulations pursuant to authority conferred upon it. The need for revising the laws concerning hunting and fishing has been evident for some time.

The General Assembly of 1960 recognized this and adopted House Joint Resolution No. 43, directing the Virginia Advisory Legislative Council to make a study and report upon the game, inland fish and dog laws.