Bill > A04318

This bill amends the environmental conservation law to modify the provisions for free hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses for certain military personnel and tribal members. The bill expands and clarifies existing language regarding license exemptions, specifically addressing members of the United States armed forces. It removes language specifying that military personnel must be state residents to qualify for free licenses, instead focusing on active service members who are not stationed within the state and have been in the state for 30 days or less. The bill also updates language to use gender-neutral terminology (changing "his or her" to "their") when describing visual acuity requirements for blind individuals. Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions for free or reduced-cost licenses for specific groups, including members of the Shinnecock and Poospatuck tribes, six nations tribal members, active members of the New York organized militia, and residents who are blind or over 70 years old. The changes aim to provide more inclusive and accessible licensing options for military service members and other specified groups.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4318