Bill > A04653

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to extend free hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses to members of the Seneca Nation who reside within the state. Currently, free licenses are available to Indian residents or members of the six nations residing on reservations, and this bill specifically adds Seneca Nation members to that category. The bill modifies two sections of existing law to explicitly include Seneca Nation residents, ensuring they can obtain free fishing, hunting, and trapping licenses under the same conditions as other Native American tribes in New York. The legislation will go into effect 30 days after it becomes law, which means Seneca Nation members living in the state will soon be able to receive these recreational licenses at no cost, similar to members of other recognized Native American tribes in New York. This change appears to be part of recognizing the rights and cultural practices of the Seneca Nation within the state.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4653