Requires the commissioner of environmental conservation to promote education in hunting, fishing and outdoor education in high school physical education courses

2 Co-sponsors

• Patrick M. Gallivan
• Mark Grisanti

BILL NUMBER:S4933

Title of bill

An act to amend the environmental conservation law, in relation to hunting, fishing and outdoor education in high school physical education courses

Purpose or general idea of bill

The purpose of this legislation is to promote hunting, fishing and outdoor activities in an educational capacity.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1: Amends §3-0301 of the Environmental Conservation Law by adding a new paragraph aa. This paragraph places requirement on the Department of Environmental Conservation to develop an education program for grades nine through twelve regarding types of fish that can be caught, game sought and other information necessary for implementing an education program.

Section 2: Provides that the act shall take effect the July succeeding when it becomes law; provided that any other changes to law or regulations be made immediately.

Justification

Recent studies have pointed out that more and more children are becoming more and more obese due to their lack of activity and distorted eating habits. In order to change this situation and develop healthier children, it is essential that they become more aware of opportunities that exist for them.

To support this, it is essential that children become aware of the benefits that can be seen in hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation. With the vast resources available throughout New York, children will be able to engage in various activities that lead to a healthier lifestyle.

Creating a healthier lifestyle is beneficial; however, it is not the only benefit that will be seen. One of the other significant benefits recognized is the creation of a link to the history and development of our state. Various regions of the state have significant cultural links to outdoor activities. Providing education in the classroom will teach children about these links and how the activities have created the culture.

In addition to creating a healthier lifestyle and providing insight into the cultural significance of an area and its activities, providing education in the classroom will also lead to place hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation in a positive light

Prior legislative history

2009-10: A.3014 - Held for Consideration in Environmental Conservation 2007-08: A.3876 - Held for Consideration in Environmental Conservation 2005-06: A.11017- Held for consideration in Environmental Conservation

Fiscal implications

Minimal.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first of July next succeeding the date on which it became law; provided, however that effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date is authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.