Bill > S00562

This bill amends the environmental conservation law to prohibit "canned shoots" of non-native big game mammals, which are hunting practices where animals are confined in small or enclosed spaces with limited or no ability to escape. The bill expands existing restrictions by removing the previous ten-acre limitation and clarifying that any enclosed area from which an animal cannot escape is prohibited. The legislation specifically forbids owners, operators, or managers of facilities with non-native big game mammals from allowing hunting practices where animals are: tied, hobbled, staked, attached to objects, or confined in containers or fenced areas without escape routes. The bill also broadens the definition of "fee" to include not just direct payment for hunting, but also compensation for associated services like lodging, meals, or other amenities. The bill defines shooting as discharging firearms or bows, and spearing as using hand or mechanically propelled pike, blade, or harpoon. The amendments aim to prevent unfair hunting practices that do not give animals a reasonable chance to evade hunters, with the law set to take effect on the first of November following its passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S562