Bill > A05407

This bill authorizes the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to issue special airport air strike hazard permits to help manage wildlife risks at airports. Under the proposed law, airports can apply for a permit when wildlife becomes a nuisance, threatens public safety, or risks damaging property. The bill defines key terms like "airport" (using the existing legal definition), "airport wildlife hazard specialist" (a government or airport employee managing wildlife), and specifies which wildlife can be addressed under the permit. To obtain a permit, airport wildlife hazard specialists must meet specific criteria, including demonstrating marksmanship, carrying liability insurance, maintaining the permit on their person, and following reporting requirements. The permit would allow specialists to manage wildlife within airport boundaries and surrounding areas as defined by the Federal Aviation Administration, effectively providing an exemption to certain existing wildlife protection regulations. The department is not obligated to issue permits and retains discretion to deny applications if they do not believe the wildlife management will effectively address the identified risks. The bill would take effect 180 days after becoming law, giving airports and wildlife management agencies time to prepare for its implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5407