Bill > A03608

This bill amends the environmental conservation law to expand the existing search and rescue program managed by the forest ranger force. Currently, forest rangers can conduct search and rescue operations in fire towns and fire districts, which are specific designated areas with fire protection services. The bill adds a new provision that explicitly authorizes forest rangers to establish a training and credentialing program for volunteer wild land search and rescue personnel. These trained volunteers will be able to assist forest rangers in searching for lost and missing persons in wild, remote, and forested areas of the state. The bill maintains the existing protocol that if criminal activity is suspected or a fugitive search is involved, law enforcement agencies will take the lead on such operations. By creating this volunteer training program, the bill aims to enhance the state's search and rescue capabilities by supplementing the forest ranger force with additional trained personnel who can help in challenging wilderness environments.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3608