Bill > A08281

This bill extends the New York Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) authority to manage blackfish (a species of marine fish scientifically known as Tautoga onitis) until December 31, 2028, instead of the previously set date of December 31, 2025. The bill allows the DEC to continue establishing regulations for blackfish management, which include setting size limits, catch and possession limits, defining open and closed fishing seasons, creating closed fishing areas, regulating fishing methods, requiring permits, mandating recordkeeping, controlling fishing effort and gear, and managing transportation, possession, and sale of blackfish. These regulations must align with existing legal requirements and be consistent with fishery management plans developed by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and the Federal Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The changes aim to provide ongoing regulatory flexibility for sustainable management of the blackfish species, with the bill taking effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8281