Is there any special reason why I as an older adult HAVE to take HE here in PA?

I lived in Indiana where, because of my age, I did not need to have the course. When I lived in Missouri, I did not need it either because I was born before 1965.

So I move here becuase of employment and now just to shoot the squirrels in my back yard I have to take the course.

I am NOT against the course. I believe in its purpose. But where are the options for new residents?