New York Assembly Bill A08428

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/15/25
• Refer: 5/15/25
• Report Pass: 5/20/25
• Refer: 5/20/25
• Report Pass: 5/21/25
• Engrossed: 5/21/25
• Refer: 5/21/25
• Engrossed: 6/4/25

Caption

Extends provisions of law relating to the authority of the department of environmental conservation to fix by regulation open seasons, size and catch limits and manner of taking fish from December 31, 2025 until December 31, 2028.

Impact

The passage of A08428 would continue to empower the DEC with necessary regulatory authority to adaptively manage fish populations and fishing practices based on current ecological data. By extending the deadlines originally set in 2025, the bill aligns with ongoing conservation efforts and ensures that management can be informed by the latest environmental assessments. This is crucial for maintaining sustainable fish populations and supporting the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.

Summary

Bill A08428 proposes an extension of the provisions regarding the authority of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to regulate fishing activities in New York State. Specifically, it seeks to authorize the DEC to fix by regulation the open seasons, size and catch limits, and permissible methods of taking fish through December 31, 2028. This extension aims to ensure that the management of fish populations remains responsive to ecological and conservation needs over the next several years.

Contention

However, as the bill would maintain regulatory authority vested in the DEC, there may be concerns from various stakeholders including local fishers and conservation groups about the balance between regulation and fishing rights. Some advocates argue that the bill provides too much power to a single state agency without adequate input from local fishing communities. There may also be apprehension regarding how the regulations could affect local economies that rely on fishing as a livelihood. This tension highlights the ongoing debate between conservation priorities and the interests of local stakeholders in fishing activities.