Bill > A08278

This bill extends the authority of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to manage weakfish (a marine fish species scientifically known as Cynoscion regalis) until December 31, 2028. The bill amends an existing section of environmental conservation law by changing the expiration date of the department's management powers from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2028. Under this authority, the DEC can continue to establish regulations for weakfish, including setting size limits, catch and possession limits, determining open and closed fishing seasons, creating closed fishing areas, and establishing restrictions on fishing methods, permits, recordkeeping, fishing effort, gear, transportation, possession, and sale. These regulations must align with the requirements in the existing law and must be consistent with fishery management plans adopted by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission and federal fishery management guidelines. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8278