Bill > A07551

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to limit the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) authority in setting special deer hunting seasons. Specifically, the bill changes the end date for special deer hunting seasons from February 10 to the third Sunday of December. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that allows the DEC to create special hunting season regulations for specific counties or wildlife management units, but requires the department to first consult with local governments and stakeholders. This modification provides more flexibility for local wildlife management while also ensuring that local input is considered when establishing special hunting seasons. The change aims to potentially align special deer hunting seasons more closely with traditional hunting periods and give local communities a greater voice in determining hunting regulations that impact their specific regions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7551