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:S1884

Title of bill

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

Purpose or general idea of bill

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

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1: Amends subdivision 1 of section 3-0301 of the Environmental Conservation Law by adding a new paragraph (aa) which authorizes the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation to work with the Board of Regents to develop an education program for grades nine through twelve regarding various hunting and fishing seasons, species that can be sought, necessary materials for obtaining hunting and fishing licenses, outdoor opportunities for recreation and exercise purposes, and the history and benefits of hunting and fishing in New York State's development.

Section 2: Effective date.

Justification

Recent studies have pointed out that more and more chil- dren 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 bene- fits that can he 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

S.4933 of 2012: Passed Senate, Died in Assembly Environmental Conserva- tion S.4933 of 2011: Died on Senate Floor Calendar, Died in Assembly Environmental Conservation A.3014 of 2010: Died in Assembly Environ- mental Conservation A.3014 of 2009: Died in Assembly Environmental Conservation A.3876 of 2008: Died in Assembly Environmental Conservation A.3876 of 2007: Died in Assembly Environmental Conservation A.11017 of 2006: Died in Assembly 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 effec- tive date is authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.