Bill > S01919

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to provide free lifetime sporting licenses for certain disabled veterans. Specifically, the bill eliminates the fee for lifetime hunting, fishing, trapping, archery, and muzzle-loading licenses for New York state residents who: (a) have been honorably discharged from the United States armed forces, (b) have a qualifying condition as defined in the veterans' services law and received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable, or (c) are discharged LGBT veterans with a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable and are certified as having a 40% or greater service-connected disability. Previously, these lifetime licenses carried fees ranging from $235 to $765 depending on the type of license and the age of the purchaser. By removing these fees for eligible veterans, the bill provides a benefit to recognize and support veterans who have served the country and may have service-related disabilities. The change takes effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1919