Bill > A02507

This bill amends the New York Environmental Conservation Law to expand free hunting, fishing, and trapping license eligibility for military personnel and veterans. Specifically, the bill removes previous restrictions on where active duty service members are stationed and broadens the definition of eligible military personnel to include those in active service and reserve components. The bill now allows active members of the United States armed forces and organized militia to receive free licenses regardless of their station, and creates a new provision for veterans with ten or more years of military service who have been honorably discharged to also receive free licenses. The changes eliminate previous language that limited licenses to state residents or those stationed within New York, making the benefits more inclusive for military personnel and veterans. The bill uses gender-neutral language (changing "his or her" to "their") and maintains existing free license provisions for other groups like Native American tribe members and blind residents. The amendment aims to provide additional benefits and recognition to those who have served in the military.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2507