Bill > A08280

This bill extends the authority of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to adopt and implement regulations for the management of clams from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2028. Specifically, the bill allows the DEC to create regulations governing hard clams (Mercenaria mercenaria), soft or steamer clams (Mya arenaria), and razor clams (Ensis sp.). These regulations can cover a wide range of management aspects, including size limits, catch and possession limits, seasonal restrictions, closed areas, fishing methods, permit requirements, recordkeeping, fishing effort and gear specifications, and rules for transportation, possession, and sale of clams. The bill ensures that any new regulations implemented by the DEC must be at least as strict as the existing requirements in the environmental conservation law. By extending the department's regulatory authority, the bill aims to continue supporting sustainable clam fishery management in New York State.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8280