Provides for the issuance of free hunting, fishing and trapping licenses to persons who are active or reserve members of the armed forces or the organized militia, and to honorably discharged veterans thereof who have ten or more years of military service.
Summary
Bill A02507 amends the environmental conservation law to provide free hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses to active and reserve duty members of the United States armed services, as well as to certain veterans who have served for ten or more years. The bill also extends these benefits to members of the organized militia and includes provisions for individuals who are blind. The legislation aims to honor the service of military personnel and veterans by easing their access to outdoor recreational activities.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will modify existing state laws regarding the issuance of hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses by eliminating fees for eligible military members and veterans. This change is expected to increase participation in these activities among service members and veterans, promoting outdoor recreation and potentially benefiting local economies reliant on hunting and fishing.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A02507 appears to be generally positive, as it seeks to recognize and reward the contributions of military personnel and veterans. However, there may be some concerns regarding the potential financial implications for state conservation funds that rely on license fees.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from discussions about the financial impact of waiving fees for licenses, particularly among conservation advocates who might argue that such measures could affect funding for wildlife management and conservation efforts. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the definition of eligibility for veterans and the organized militia.
Authorizes free hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and free admission to State parks and forests for disabled veterans and individuals with certain types of military service.
Authorizes free hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and free admission to State parks and forests for individuals with certain types of military service.
Authorizes free hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and free admission to State parks and forests for individuals with certain types of military service.
Creates a distinctive license plate for veterans honoring Borinqueneers; defines "veteran" as a person who is a resident of this state, who served in the armed forces of the United States, and was honorably discharged from the armed forces, or has a qualifying condition, as defined in section one of the veterans' services law, and has received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable from such service, or is a discharged LGBT veteran, as defined in section one of the veterans' services law, and has received a discharge other than bad conduct or dishonorable from such service.
Provides for free hunting, fishing and trapping licenses to residents of the state who are active duty members of the U.S. armed forces regardless of where such person is stationed.
Provides for free hunting, fishing and trapping licenses to residents of the state who are active duty members of the U.S. armed forces regardless of where such person is stationed.