NY Gov. Signs New Law With Hunting Restrictions

Although New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), says a Bill She Signed into Law this week, won't "ban hunting or fishing" in New York, it does Prohibit what She deems "the wasteful taking of certain wildlife" in the State.

The Law takes aim at Hunting Contests, Competitions, Tournaments, or Derbys, that are held for Prize or Entertainment purposes, making them Unlawful. Only Hunting Contests organized for the Targeted Management of Wildlife Populations will be Allowed in New York.

A Release from the Governor's Office notes that Animals such as: Coyotes, Crows, Rabbits, and Squirrels, are often Killed in Large Numbers as part of these Events.

"Protecting wildlife is critical to fostering the integrity and resilience of our environment and our outdoor recreation economy," Hochul said. "This legislation establishes strong safeguards for our state's precious wildlife species and protects our important fishing and hunting traditions."

Some Animal-Rights Groups met the Announcement with Excitement.

"With Governor Hochul's continued commitment to environmental stewardship, New York is now the 10th state to end wasteful cash-for-wildlife competitions," said Brian Shapiro, the New York State Director of the Humane Society. "We thank and appreciate Governor Hochul for upholding sound policies that protect and celebrate our state's precious wildlife resources."

The Legislation will be Effective in fall 2024. In addition to the continued Allowance of Contests that are aimed at Reducing Over-Population of some Animals, the Law also excludes Contests for Hunting: Bears, Turkeys, and White-tailed Deer, as well as Fishing Contests. Hochul noted that these are "carefully regulated by the state."

For those Contests that are being Prohibited, the New Law makes it Illegal to Organize, Sponsor, Conduct, Promote, or participate in them.

"Any wildlife killed during these activities become the property of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation," the Release says.

The Text of the Law notes, that Violation will result in a Fine of at least $500, and up to $2,000.









NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote! Michael H. Drucker