Issues: Hunting and Fishing

ALBANY, 06/21/11 – The New York State Senate recently passed legislation (S.2382-A) that for the first time in state history would protect the right to hunt, trap and fish in New York.  The legislation, sponsored by Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta), calls for a state constitutional amendment protecting the long-standing outdoor traditions.

“New York’s outdoor sporting traditions have deep roots,” stated Senator Seward.  “Protecting the fundamental rights to hunt, trap and fish through a state constitutional amendment would ensure their continuation for generations to come.”

New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle said the Senate has passed an important bill (S.2903B) requiring boat operators, regardless of age, who have been convicted of boating while intoxicated (BWI) to take a boating safety course before operating a boat again.

“Long Island’s peak boating season is fast approaching,” LaValle said. “Educating those who have been convicted of BWI, may prevent future tragedies,” LaValle said.

The state already requires those age 21 and over and who are convicted of boating while intoxicated to obtain a boating safety certificate before operating a vehicle. The bill passed today expands upon that law by requiring those under 21 and convicted of an alcohol-related boating offense to obtain a certificate as well.

State Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) has been named co-chair of the New York State Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus. The bi-partisan group, made up of legislators from both the Assembly and Senate, focuses on legislative issues concerning sportsmen and women, including fishing, hunting and other outdoor-related activities.

The State Legislature has reached an agreement with the Governor to repeal the 2009 Saltwater Fishing License New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle (R-C-I, Port Jefferson) said today.

The license law, LaValle said,  will be transformed into a registration requirement to meet federal law. In addition, the registration is guaranteed to be free for the next two years and those who purchased lifetime licenses will be granted a refund minus the fee for the past year.

"I voted against the license law and fee when it was part of the 2009 budget and am happy to see the demise of what was essentially a hidden tax,” said LaValle. 

The agreement must still be ratified in the State Budget, which is expected to be approved shortly.

State Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) voted to pass a package of legislation that extends or creates programs to honor the brave veterans and active military personnel who serve our nation.

The State Senate today passed legislation supported by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that would expand opportunities for New Yorkers to participate in sporting activities including snowmobiling and hunting. 

ALBANY, 02/28/11 – Cortland County sportsmen and women will be allowed to use a rifle while hunting deer or bear under legislation (S.1683) passed by the senate, Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I–Oneonta) said today.

“This is common sense legislation that mirrors regulations already in effect in neighboring counties allowing the use of rifles while hunting big game,” said Senator Seward.  “More importantly, Cortland County sportsmen and women, who collectively have an impeccable safety record, strongly support the change.”