Bill > A03330

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to prohibit the importation of live bait fish for use in inland waters fishing. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal for any person to bring live bait fish into the state, with the definition of "live bait fish" referenced from an existing section of the law. The bill establishes penalties for violating this prohibition, classifying such violations as a Class A misdemeanor with a fine of up to twenty dollars for each illegally possessed fish. The purpose of this legislation appears to be preventing the potential introduction of invasive species or fish diseases that could be brought in through live bait. The new regulations will take effect 180 days after the bill becomes law, giving individuals and businesses time to adjust to the new requirements. The penalty structure suggests the law aims to deter importation through financial consequences while providing a clear, straightforward enforcement mechanism.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3330