According to the original post, concealed weapons were always permitted. It is just the rules on open carry that changed.

So I guess this will counter the threat of those wild animals that are intimidated by open carry.

Probably has something to do with hunting, which is very popular in the state. Plus, generally Virginia likes to reduce restrictions on firearms, part of the "small government" idea. Little sense to limit something that's not really going to cause harm.

Crime is generally not a huge problem in most parts of the state (ok, Hampton Roads and downtown Richmond excepted).

Crime has been pretty off the wall in Hampton Roads since New Year's. This week, VBPD made many arrests for suspects related to those crimes.

Being less restricted in the event of wildlife (or other) attack while in a state park is a good idea. Props to the guv'