April 2020-Property Management & Legislative

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Whortlekill Rod and Gun Club, Inc. P.O. Box 1371 540 Route 376 Hopewell Junction, N.Y. 12533

APRIL 2020-PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & LEGISLATIVE REPORTS, & SIDEBAR COMMENTS: CHAIRMAN PAUL ANNETTS

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CONCERNS:

1-SPOKE WITH OUR FORESTER AND HIS CREW HAS COMPLETED THE LAST 8 ACRES OF BRAWN HILL 480A PROGRAM; THIS COVERS 2019 AND 2020 MANDATE PER CONTRACT WITH DEC. BILL SUBMITTED FOR $3800. BRANDY BROOK PROPERTY 480A STILL ON HOLD UNTIL DEC AND FORESTER DECIDE BEST APPROACH. 2-The Sullivan County Federation reports that the Sullivan County Soil and Water Conservation District, in Liberty, is currently selling various trees for planting. They can be contacted at 845-292-6552. They recommend the planning of the Northern Spy Apple which is a good buy and they have had a lot of success with that species. Orders must be in by April 6.

SIDEBAR COMMENTS: NOTE: UNDERLINED SECTIONS ADDRESS MAIN POINTS! 1-According to Outdoor News: “legislation that would expand crossbow use in New York State has resurfaced in both the Assembly and Senate, setting the stage for another contentious battle within the sporting community again this year. Previous attempts to allow senior and physically challenged hunters to use crossbows during the entire archery season, or to allow all

2 | P a g e hunters to do so, have failed in the Legislature. It’s expected to be a tough road again this year. But the bills – S5818A and its Assembly companion A7627 –A – will almost assuredly trigger another intense lobbying effort on both sides of the issue which in recent years has launched the most bitter debate among hunters. Crossbows are currently allowed in New York during the latter portion of the archery seasons, as well as in any season where a firearm can be used. But supporters of expanded crossbow use, led by the New York State Crossbow Coalition, contend that the horizontally held implements should be allowed in the entire archery season. The bills have been sent to the respective Environmental Conservation Committee for review;” “in past years that’s where they have typically remained without advancing to a floor vote. New York Crossbow Coalition Pres. Rick McDermott earlier this year delivered 3,764 letters in support of expanded crossbow used to both the Senate and Assembly.” “This is a great number, but we need to send in even more, “” he told members in an email. This year’s Assembly bill was sponsored by Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D-Round Lake), with numerous cosponsors. State Sen. Jen Metzger(D-Rosendale) is the lead sponsor of the Senate companion bill, which is cosponsored by Senators Patrick Gallivan (R-Elma) and James Seward (R-Milford). There has been some optimism among sportsmen this year since the lead sponsors of the bills are Democrats, who hold majorities in both the Assembly and the Senate. But pro-sporting legislation has in recent years stalled in committee; it has been six years since crossbows were legalized in a portion of the archery season. In 2014, amendments to the Environmental Conservation Law authorized the use of crossbows for taking certain wildlife at certain times, put restrictions on who may use crossbows, when and where they may be used, and the license, tag and training requirements are confusing and inconsistent with management needs and hunter preferences, Woermer wrote in her sponsor’s memo.” “A variety of changes to the ECL are needed to expand the use of crossbows to use the implement during any season whenever longbows can be used for young people, seniors and disabled persons. This extension will foster recruitment, retention and reactivation of New York hunters.” “The bills would allow crossbow use for senior and physically challenged hunters and would link crossbows with the archery hunting season. Currently, as a product of the intense lobbying effort back in 2014, crossbow users must possess a muzzleloader license. The proposals would also place the decision on crossbow use and seasons in the hands of the DEC, which has in the past acquired expanded use of the implement. The bills will also: 1-Would allow youth to hunt small game with the crossbow. 2-Change bolt to arrow. 3-Remove the 200-pound maximum draw weight restriction and the minimum 17-inch width restriction. Those regulations made many commonly use crossbows illegal for use in New York State. 4-Repeal the prohibition on the use of a mechanical device with a bow and the permit for disabled hunters to use crossbows which may be discharged only using one’s breath. 5-Reduce the setback to discharge a crossbow to 150 feet, identical to longbow regulations. New York Bowhunters, Inc., which has been steadfast in its opposition to crossbows in any part of the regular archery season – including by seniors and physically challenged hunters – will likely again step up in opposition to the bills.”” Crossbow popularity in New York State has stalled somewhat due to the limited portion of the archery season in which they may be used. But older hunters who have ended their hunting efforts due to physical – usually shoulder – problems that prevented them from drawing a compound or recurve bow are turning to the crossbow to extend their hunting careers. Archery shops have reported brisk sales of crossbows, and many hunters along the Pennsylvania – New

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York already own implements, since Pennsylvania years earlier expand crossbow used into the regular archery season.” 2-According to New York Outdoor News: They mentioned in detail, in the paper commentary, that the New York State Conservation Council (NYSCC) needs support at this critical junction. They feel that the NYSCC, which represents sportsmen/women across the state, have made some inroads into environmental conservation issues and continue to protect sportsmen/ women. They further stated that the group lobbies in behalf of all sportsmen/women. Some of the key areas mentioned are as follows;” 1-legalized crossbow hunting in New York is somewhat restricted but is slowly being extended. I firmly believe we would probably not have it at all in New York without the strong support of the Council. Incidentally, most of the opposition comes from sportsmen’s groups who continually argue about where to place the crossbow season and who should be able to use the implement. 2-Sunday big-game season/weekend opening of big-game season. This is another overall accomplishment which started as an NYSCC resolution quite a few years ago. 3-Coyote season. This was supported and pushed by the Council. A longer season is still being sought in the NYSCC is supporting it. Many anti-groups were strongly opposed to having any coyote season. 4-Rifle use in big-game season was an NYSCC resolution that finally came to pass and is now approved in many counties in New York State. 5- Fish hatchery renovations and upkeep were strongly supported by the NY SCC Fish Committee and the Council; in recent years a great deal of money has been spent to renovate the hatcheries in most need. 6-Pheasant farms. I believe for many years the state has wanted to close the pheasant farms. The NYSCC has fought to keep them open, but this is still an ongoing battle since only one is left. There is no doubt in my mind that this program would be gone without the strong support shown by the Council. 7-Through the NYSCC efforts, the New York State Assembly was stopped from acquiring personal information about hunters, trappers and anglers that is required on license applications. 8-the organization foot for early deer, waterfowl, pheasant and turkey seasons for junior hunters – they’re our future! 9- Through collaboration with other like-minded groups, we saw landmark legislation signed into law allowing youth ages 14 through 20 to handle and use handguns on a range for firearms training, target practice and shooting competition. What better way to introduce young people to sport shooting?” “The New York State Conservation Council is the oldest statewide volunteer conservation organization in New York. It was incorporated in 1933 by sportsmen/conservationist to help secure and managed New York’s abundant natural resources for present and future generations, to protect access, and guard the rights of sportsmen and sports women to hunt, fish, trap and own firearms. The NYSCC is not a state agency and receives no state or federal money. It is funded by membership dues, donations, outside fundraisers, Buck A Member donation from clubs and County sportsmen federations, and ads in the bi-monthly Grassroots News. Members who represent the NYSCC at public hearings, who lobby legislators or who attend meetings or functions were Council attendance is needed, receive no compensation or reimbursement. Council members donate their time, talent and resources to advocate for their fellow sportsmen and women. The NYSCC has an office manager, the only full-time employee, and a part-time operations manager. All officers, board and committee members are volunteers. Through it’s a seat on the Conservation Fund Advisory Board, the NYSCC has regular meetings with the Department of the Environmental Conservation management. Members are involved with regional and state fish and wildlife

4 | P a g e management boards and have a working relationship with other organizations with similar purposes. These are just a few accomplishments of the NYSCC; however, it could do much more with an infusion of money. The Council’s legislative vice president could spend more time in Albany speaking with legislators about initiatives it supports. If we can get just a dollar a year from every sportsmen and sportswomen in New York State, there is no limit to what could be accomplished. The NYSCC, which is your only voice on a state level, will be gone without an infusion of money. The NYSCC can be found online at www.nyscc.com; the office telephone number is 315 – 894 – 3302 and the office email is: [email protected] please support the New York State Conservation Council, an organization advocating for sportsmen and conservation since 1933.” 3-According to the New York State Firearms Association: “Recently, the New York State Firearms Association, in conjunction with our bill sponsors in the state Senate and the Assembly, introduced “Stand Your Ground” legislation in Albany. This bill would allow gun owners to use justifiable deadly force in their homes or anyplace else you are lawfully allowed to be, without having to retreat or face spurious criminal and civil charges. This bill was sponsored by Senator Rob Ortt (R-Niagara County) and Assemblyman David DiPietro (R- Erie County.) 4- According to Senator Mike Ranzenhofer-Republican:” legislation is moving in the New York State Senate that would ban hunting contest. The bill, S7542, would make it a misdemeanor to sponsor or participate in a hunting contest and is currently on the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee agenda. If passed out of committee, it would be eligible for consideration by the entire Senate. In addition to the legislation showing a clear lack of understanding of hunting events, the bill sponsor mischaracterizes the purpose of hunting contests and belittles sportsmen and women, in a way that is insulting to all hunters. Senate leadership’s willingness to bring this bill up for committee consideration, for such a misguided justification, only further shows their complete disregard for the sports women and men in rural communities across the state. Without input from hunters, this bill can pass and will only further advanced negative stereotypes about hunters. Make your voice heard by commenting! Contact your Senator and Assemblyman.” 5-According to the New York State Conservation Council (NYSCC): “The NYSCC is opposed to the enactment of blanket restrictions on competitions involving the taking of wildlife. Hunting, as all sports do, engenders a competitive streak. Thus, hunting and trapping contest have been conducted since time immemorial with participants congregating at the end of the day to socialize and compare results and perhaps settle a friendly wager or two. The organization of tournaments only represents a formalization of these activities, often as a fundraiser for a charitable cause. These contests are not wanton killing events. They are comprised of a number of individual hunts conducted under the same statutes and regulations as any individual hunting or trapping activity. Contrary to often stated complaints, these contests do not involve any confinement or impairment of fair chase practices. Regulated hunting activities are a vital component of species management. The stewardship of habitat and wildlife is complex, requiring both professional training and actual boots on the ground. This is best provided by a well-schooled and experienced DEC staff and not by legislative micromanagement. Broad legislative prohibitions of this type are based on misconceptions and emotion rather than on the ground knowledge and experience that should prevail. “

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6-According to President Jack Danchak-President of the Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs of Sullivan County, in reference to the organization’s annual Coyote hunt which has been targeted by the Humane Society. “ We had some people write and call us with the question, “Why does your Sportsmen’s Federation sponsor a coyote contest that is killing these innocent coyotes? “”Our explanation to the people who don’t understand why our Sportsmen’s Federation does this and why sportsmen/women all over the US support these contests that help to decrease the coyote population. First of all, one must be aware that the coyote population is exploding and increasing at an alarming, tremendous, rapid rate. Coyotes are now seen in places that never before had coyotes. In some state’s coyotes are running out of the natural food chain for them. Here in New York State and Pennsylvania where many of our fellow hunters hunt, coyotes are doing a job on the wildlife. They are killing rabbits, squirrels, turkeys, pheasants, deer fawns and adult deer at the unusual increasing pace. If you are raising chickens, lambs, sheep and livestock, you are in jeopardy of losing them to coyotes. If a female coyote has pops, she is desperate to get food for them. Some domestic cats and dogs are now considered “coyote bait”, if they go out into the woods and forest, you may never see them again. A few years back a 28-year-old lady jogging in Canada was attacked by coyotes and they killed her. If coyotes will take on a human adult, why wouldn’t these savage killers go after a child playing in your backyard. We feel human safety has priority over protecting these wild animals – coyotes and this is one of the main reasons why we encourage organizations to sponsor coyote contests and we encourage hunters to get out and hunt them whenever possible according to state coyote legal hunting rules and regulations. Until wildlife biologist come up with a solution to resolve the exploding coyote population, we hunters will continue to hunt coyotes to help prevent coyotes from destroying and killing all other wildlife and domestic animals.” “Note: As you are aware, we support the Sullivan County Sportsmen Federation each year in various fundraising events. President Jack Danchak and I have been friends for many years now and when he called me regarding the afore mentioned situations involving the coyote contests, I told him I would help him as much as I possibly could. Together we were able to research and prepare a defense by getting other organizations and hunters in general involved in contacting their appropriate assemblyman and senators. Particularly concentrating on the members of the Senate and Assembly Environmental Conservation Committees which are involved with these bills which are against hunters hunting coyotes. It’s important that your voice be heard through your Senator and Assemblyman in the support of coyote hunting contests. As are aware, I have already contacted Senator Sue Serino and Assemblyman Kieran Lalor who have always been supportive of sportsmen/women. ” 6-According to SCOPE: “New York town to defy future state gun restrictions; others may join. Solon, New York – this town became the first in New York to pass a law refusing to enforce future state gun laws. The town law prohibits any town official or employee from participating in the enforcement of future state gun laws or from using town funds to aid in such enforcement. The law would also allow Solon residents to sue anyone accused of violating the law in state Supreme Court for declaratory and injunctive relief, damages, and attorney fees as well as civil fines between $500 and $2000. The law has three exceptions. It would not: apply to convicted felons or those prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law. Prohibit in any way the prosecution of any crime for which the use of, or possession of, a firearm is an aggravating factor or an enhancement to an otherwise independent crime. Allow firearms

6 | P a g e possession in areas where they are now prohibited by law. The proposed law would not apply to the enforcement of existing gun laws, including the 2013 SAFE ACT. The town claims that this effort was to counter what they see as overreached by state government attuned more to the needs of urban rather than rural constituents”. They quote, “ We are not New York City. Our lives are vastly different from those in New York City. We are country folk. We been called everything – redneck, hick, cowboy. Well guess what? I think the government has hopefully met its match with this board. I think it will continue with other local towns and I think once this rolls, the governor will get a clear understanding that we are not woodchucks, we are not rednecks and we are not hillbillies.” Note: as a follow-up: 2ANYS reports the following: “Gun Owners of America (GOA) has drafted a Second Amendment sanctuary ordinance that is receiving the support of Second Amendment advocates in many New York counties, including a large number in Monroe County. Essentially, the ordinance bars County or municipal employees from enforcing statutes that violate the Second Amendment and bars the use of county or municipal funds to enforce such statutes. Several public officials have opined that enacting the ordinance or complying with it would be unlawful. The in-depth analysis of 2ANYS unveiled outlines and discusses the major legal issues involved. Specifically, the following arguments that have been made against the ordinance are addressed in detail: Enforcing the ordinance would violate the sheriff’s oath of office. Counties do not have the right to enact the ordinance under their home rule powers. The ordinance is preempted by state law. The governor can remove a sheriff who complies with the ordinance. Enforcing the ordinance would lead to the prosecution of the sheriff. The ordinance encourages people to disobey the law.” 7- Sullivan County Federation Pres. Jack Danchak reports that the 2020 coyote hunt was very successful as a profit maker to support many of their programs. He further reported on the results of a coyote hunt that was held in Pennsylvania; 4,914 hunters were registered and brought in 219 coyotes. The top prize was $9,828. The Animal Humane Society secretly videoed Sullivan county’s coyote hunt and placed it on Facebook and YouTube with negative commentary. The Sportsmen’s Alliance of Ohio and the Trappers Association are all lobbying in Albany regarding these hunts. The New York State Conservation Council has voted to oppose Sen. Metzger’s bill regarding deer feeding in the winter months in Sullivan County. They explained that they are following the DEC’s policy. Pres. Danchak further reported that Sullivan County has once again approved the grant of $20,000 for the Federation. 8-According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation: “NSSF is working hard to ensure that firearm and ammunition retailers are able to remain open during the current crisis. We have heard from an NICS that there is a large and growing backlog of checks in delay status. We have also heard from retailers nationwide that in cases of delays, and NICS is providing firearm transfer dates of well over the federally mandated three business days. We frequently hear that the date being given is April 15, although some have been reported to extend beyond the 30 days that the check is valid for. This appears to run counter to the Brady Act and NCIS regulations, particularly in states without government office closures. NSSF has been in contact with NICS through multiple touch points and is seeking the answers that your businesses need right now. In the meantime, NSSF cautions FFL’s that the delays faced in recent weeks are unusual. We advise you not transfer a firearm earlier than the date provided to you by NICS. We are also working with ATF to obtain guidance for retailers as to whether you are permitted to conduct curbside or sidewalk transactions during the national emergency. ATF lawyers are

7 | P a g e working on this issue and we should have more information on that front soon as well. With the surge in sales many FFl”s are running low on form 4473 and other required forms. We are also asking ATF whether and how ATF will be able to resupply retailers with forms, or whether retailers can make and use photocopies of the forms if ATF is unable to provide forms in a timely manner. Update: As we noted prior, NSSF is in close contact with ATF to help get the answers your businesses need at this crucial time. We know that many firearm retailers are running low on forms 4473’s and other required forms due to the substantial surge in sales. ATF has informed us that it is currently limiting orders of ATF form 4473 to 1500 per request. ATF has already ordered additional forms and expects to receive them early next week. Also, ATF notes that as it replenishes its supply, it will reevaluate limiting orders. If the firearm retailer does print photocopies of the form 4473 to use during this time, it is important to print all six pages to remain compliant, this includes the instruction pages. In the past, retailers have been cited for not printing and filing all pages of form 4473. NSSF continues to work with ATF on guidance for retailers as to whether you are permitted to conduct curbside or sidewalk transactions during the national emergency. ATF lawyers are working on this issue and we should have more information on that front soon as well. We encourage FFL’s to contact your local ATF field office to seek guidance in the meantime. NSSF is also working to find out why FBI – NICS is telling FFL’s they cannot transfer a firearm in a delayed transaction for several weeks (long past three business days) when it appears state offices are open.”

Legislative Report: (Posted in downstairs clubhouse & read at general meeting & Board meeting & posted on Club’s Internet Site, and sent to members with emails registered with Club; report double sided-I ask for no budget and cover costs myself):

Bills are tracked when Legislature is in session from January through June of each year. In the second year of the two-year session, New York State legislators are elected to a two-year term. On the first day of the new session, most of the previous year’s bills, which remain active at the end of the year, will automatically be carried into the new session, with some exceptions: bills not carried over will include (but are not limited to) those that were Chaptered, vetoed, had the enacting clause stricken, or the sponsor is no longer in the Legislature. A bill will retain its bill number assigned to it in the first year of the two-year session. If a bill only passed its own house last year, it must repass that house again in the new session, before it can advance to the other house. In general, all active bills will be referred to the original committee, except for Assembly bills which passed only the Assembly last year; these bills will be reported to the Assembly’s third reading calendar*. *Exception: if an Assembly bill had a “Home Rule Request”, that bill will be recommitted, even if it passed the Assembly. (Legislative Rules.) Bill must pass Senate-then Assembly-then Gov.; while the Legislature is in session, the governor has 10 days, not counting Sundays, to sign or veto bills passed by both houses. Signed bills become law; vetoed bills do not however, the governor’s failure to sign or veto a bill within the 10-day period means that it becomes law automatically. Vetoed bills are returned to the house that first pass them together with a statement of the reason for their disapproval. A vetoed bill can become law if two thirds of the members of each house vote to override the governor’s veto.

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Current Bills of Concern sent to Senator Sue Serino (Update- 3/8/2020):

57 Hampshire Road 2/15/2020 Fishkill, New York 12524

Dear Senator Sue Serino;

The following bills are of concern to sportsmen/women in the Mid-Hudson area; the “NAY’s” are in dark print and underlined. We certainly appreciate your support!

S287/Yea/Ortt/R-Orleans-Niagara-Monroe: relates to removing the prohibition on firearm silencers. Action: referred to Environmental Conservation Committee.

S538/Aye/Gallivan/R-Wyoming&Erie&Livingston&Monroe: makes crossbow’s akin to longbows for hunting purposes; appealer. Action: referred to the environmental conservation committee

S620/Aye/Boyle/R-Suffock: prohibits the hunting or taking of wildlife with the aid of an unmanned aerial vehicle. Action: referred to the environmental conservation committee.

S688/Aye/Gallivan/R-Wyoming-Erie-Livingston-Monroe:This proposed constitutional amendment would provide within the New York State Constitution for a right of the people to hunt, trap, and fish. A new Article 20 would be added to the state constitution to ensure the right of the law-abiding citizen to hunt, trap, and fish subject to reasonable regulation by the state. Action: referred to the judiciary committee.

S1209A/Aye/Ortt/R-Orleans, Delaware, Orange, Ulster County’s: relates to removing the prohibition on the use of a firearm silencer. Action: referred to the environmental conservation committee

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S1213/Aye/Ritchie/R-Jefferson-Oswego-St. Lawrence: relates to the liability of landowners who permit recreational uses of their land. Action: Referred to Judiciary Committee.

S1363/Aye/Gallivan/R-Wyoming-Erie-Livingston-Monroe: Eliminates the requirement that hunters wear back tags during hunting season in the state. – - NOTE: This is the same bill which Whortlekill Rod and Gun Club had previously initiated; New York State is the only state which requires hunters to wear a back tag and to add further confusion, the Adirondack area does not require a back tag to be worn by a hunter, nor does certain parts of the Catskills. This tag is an archaic tool for law enforcement purposes as it can easily be fabricated; reasonable cause to believe a violation may have occurred would cause the law enforcement officer to ask the individual for his actual license, same as a state trooper would do when requesting a driver’s license. Action: referred to Environmental Conservation

S1412/Nay/Parker/D-NYC: An act to amend the penal law and the environmental conservation law, in relation to establishing additional requirements to purchase a firearm, shotgun, or rifle. Among them are: an individual would be required to apply for a hunting license prior to the purchase of the shotgun or rifle; the perspective gun owner would be required to take a five hour gun safety course and examination and passed a shooting range test with 90% accuracy; the gun buyer would have to provide notarized proof of a past drug test and mental health evaluation, providing proof of purchase of firearm and ammunition safe storage depositories and passing a criminal background check. Action: referred to the codes committee

S1413/Nay/Parker/D-NYC: S1413/Oppose/Parker/D-NYC: Is an act to “amend the penal law, in relation to requiring social media and search engine reviews prior to the approval of application or renewal of license to carry or possess a pistol or revolver…… The applicant must consent to have his or her social media accounts and search engine history reviewed and investigated …. In order to ascertain whether any social media account or search engine history of an applicant presents any good cause for the denial of a license, the investigating officer shall, after obtaining the applicant’s consent, the applicant must submit his or her login name, password or other means for accessing a personal account, service, or electronic communications device necessary to review such applicant’s

10 | P a g e social media accounts and search engine history, review an applicant’s social media accounts for the previous three years and search engine history for the previous year and investigate an applicant’s posts or searches related to: (1) commonly known profane slurs or biased language used to describe the race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation of a person; (2) threatening the health or safety of another person; (3) an act of terrorism; or (4) other issue deemed necessary by the investigating officer. …Social media accounts shall only include Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and Instagram, and search engine shall only include Google, Yahoo, and Bing…. Upon completion of the investigation, the police authority shall report the results to the licensing officer without unnecessary delay. All licenses shall be recertified to the division of state police every five years thereafter.” Action: this bill is currently in Codes committee

S1906/Yea/Funke/R-Monroe-Ontario: relates to permitting hunting, by means of an air gun or airbow. Action: referred to Environmental Conservation.

S2143/Nay/Hoylman/D-NYC: relates to the manufacture, assembly, possession, license and disposal of ghost guns. Action: refers to Codes Committee.

S2277/Nay/Hoylman/D-NYC: requires semi-automatic pistols manufactured or delivered to any licensed dealer in this state to be capable of micro stamping ammunition. Action: refer to Codes committee.

S2280/Nay/Hoylman/D-NYC: Bill creates a new section in the penal that establishes that it shall be unlawful for any person under age 21 to possess any rifle, shotgun, or firearm, except for those carrying a hunting license and using the gun in accordance with that license. Action: referred to the codes committee.

S2437/Nay/Kavanagh/D-NYC: relates to prohibiting and possession of certain 50 caliber firearms. Action: refer to Codes Committee.

S4253B/Nay/Martinez/D-NYC: provides that it shall be unlawful for any person to organize, sponsor, conduct, promote, or participate in any contests, competition, tournament or derby where the objective of such contest or competition is to take the largest number of small game, wild birds, other than wild turkeys and

11 | P a g e domestic game birds. Action: Referred to Environmental Conservation committee

S4325/Nay/Sepulveda/D-NYC: Basically, this bill relates to banning the importation, transportation, and possession of certain African wildlife species and products. Action: Referred to Environment Conservation committee.

S4868/Nay/Parker/D-NYC: Requires owners of firearms to obtain liability insurance in an amount not less than $1 million. Action: referred to Insurance Committee.

S5818/Aye/Metzger/D- Sullivan, Delaware, Orange, Ulster Counties: According to the New York Crossbow Coalition, the following changes are suggested: “Changes crossbow to the bow hunting privilege from the muzzleloader privilege. Allows 12 – 15-year-olds to hunt with a crossbow- removes the prior prohibition on 12 and 13-year-olds. Authorizes those 55 years old or older to use a crossbow in a special archery season. Authorizes those physically unable to draw a longbow as determined by a physician to use a crossbow in a special archery season. Allows youth to hunt wild small game and upland birds with a crossbow. Changes the term bolt to arrow. Removes the 200-pound maximum draw weight and the minimum 17-inch width restriction. Repeals the prohibition on the use of mechanical device with a bow and authorization/permit for disabled hunters to use crossbows which may be discharged only using one’s breath. Authorizes DEC to adopt regulations authorizing the taking of wildlife using a crossbow and to include a summary of such regulations in the hunting syllabus. Reduces the setback to discharge a crossbow to 150 feet consistent with a longbow. “Action: Referred to Environmental Conservation committee

S6401/Aye/Breslin/D-Albany & Renssalaer: Permits 4H certified shooting sports instructors to supervise and instruct persons under 16 years of age at shooting ranges. Action: On Floor Calendar

S6738/Nay/Gaughran/D-Nassau-Suffolk: relates to prohibiting firearms as prizes in a game of chance not organized by an organization of veterans, volunteer firefighters or a police benevolent Association. Action: referred to Racing, Gaming, and Wagering committee.

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S6834/Yea/Jacobs/R-Erie: relates to protecting the personal and private information of persons granted a pistol permit. Action: referred to Codes Committee.

S6913A/Yea/Metzger/D-Sullivan-Delaware-Orange-Ulster: authorizes the feeding of Whitetail deer in Sullivan County. Action: referred to Environmental Conservation Committee.

S7065/Nay/Sanders/D-NYC: Require anyone wishing to purchase a firearm to first pass a mental health evaluation. Action: referred to the New York State Consumer Protection Committee.

S7542/Nay/Martinez/D-Suffolk: makes animal killing contests, competitions, tournaments and derbies unlawful. Action: on Floor Calendar

Sincerely,

Paul W. Annetts-MJA-Whortlekill Rod & Gun Club Legislative Chairman

CC:Whortlekill Rod & Gun Club President Mike Nunes Sullivan County Federation President Jack Danchak Orange County Federation President Jim Torcivia Ulster County Federation President Dave Davis Putnam County Federation President Ray Merlotto Dutchess County Pistol Association Legislative Officer Karen Buddenhagen Middletown Pistol & Rifle Club-Legislative Officer-Steve Hoffman Safe Shoot Joe Liuni Adirondack Clubs-Geoffrey Clausson file

Current Bills of Concern Sent to Assemblyman Kieran Lalor (Update):

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57 Hampshire Road 2/15/2020 Fishkill, N.Y. 12524

Dear Assemblyman Lalor,

Please note the following bills of concern to sportsmen/women in the Mid-Hudson area. The NAY’s are highlighted and underlined. We certainly appreciate your support in this matter!

A95/Nay/Perry/D-NYC: requires proof of liability insurance prior to issuing a license to carry a firearm; applies to handguns only. Action: referred to codes.

A600/Nay/Rosenthal/D-NYC: prohibits New York State from raising pheasants. Action: Referred to Environmental Conservation committee.

A703/Nay/Glick/D-NYC: prohibits the use of lead ammunition in the taking of wildlife on state owned land and on land contributing surface water to the New York city water supply. Action: advanced to 3rd. reading

A722B-Nay/Glick/D-NYC: provides that it shall be unlawful for any person to organize, sponsor, conduct, promote, or participate in any contests, competition, tournament or derby where the objective of such contest or competition is to take the largest number of small game, wild birds, other than wild turkeys and domestic game birds. Action: Referred to Codes committee

A1251/Nay/Jaffee/D-Rockland: requires semiautomatic pistols manufactured or delivered to any licensed dealer in this state be capable of micro stamping ammunition. Action: Referred to Codes.

A1413/Nay/Simon/D-NYC: bans firearms as prizes in any game of chance. Action: Referred to Racing & Wagering.

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A1589A/Nay/Abinanti/D-Westchester: requires a purchaser of any firearm, rifle or shotgun to submit to a mental health evaluation. Action: print number A1589A.

A1594/Nay/Pretlow/D-Westchester: Requires all motor vehicles transporting five or more weapons or ammunition for five more weapons to have a separate storage area secured by padlock or combination lock and all such weapons and ammunition to be so secured when being transported and imposes a fine of at least $1000 and not more than $5000 for the violation Action: referred to transportation committee

A2045/Aye/Gunther/D-Orange & Sullivan : relates to the liability of landowners who permit recreational uses of their land. Action: referred to judiciary.

A2049/Aye/Gunther/D-Orange & Sullivan:Eliminates the requirement that hunters wear back tags during hunting season in the state. – -NOTE: This is the same bill which Whortlekill Rod and Gun Club had previously initiated; New York State is the only state which requires hunters to wear a back tag and to add further confusion, the Adirondack area does not require a back tag to be worn by a hunter, nor does certain parts of the Catskills. This tag is an archaic tool for law enforcement purposes as it can easily be fabricated; reasonable cause to believe a violation may have occurred would cause the law enforcement officer to ask the individual for his actual license, same as a state trooper would do when requesting a driver’s license. Action: Passed Senate (S2923) & referred to Environmental Conservation

A2525/Aye/Englebright/D-Suffock: prohibits the hunting or taking of wildlife with the aid of an unmanned aerial vehicle. Action: passed Senate-referred to the environmental conservation committee.

A2847/Nay/Ortiz/D-NYC: relates to requiring owners of firearms to obtain liability insurance. Action: referred to Insurance.

A3485/Nay/Rosenthal/D-NYC: prohibits using toxic ammunition in the taking of wildlife. Action: referred to Environmental Conservation.

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A3677/Aye/Gunther/D-Sullivan & Orange: relates to crossbows; repealer. Action: referred to Environmental Conservation.

A3701/Aye/Gunther/D-Orange & Sullivan:This proposed constitutional amendment would provide within the New York State Constitution for a right of the people to hunt, trap, and fish. A new Article 20 would be added to the state constitution to ensure the right of the law-abiding citizen to hunt, trap, and fish subject to reasonable regulation by the state. Action: opinion referred to judiciary.

A4380/Nay/Paulin/D-Westchester: relates to the point of contact for conducting national instant criminal background checks. Requires all background checks for firearms transfers to be routed through the state police. Would implement background check for ammunition sales. Action: referred to Governmental Operations.

A5569/Aye/Goodell/R-Chautauqua:To reduce by one year the age at which one may participate in certain sport shooting safety programs. Action: Referred to Codes Committee.

A7556/Nay/Rosenthal/D-NYC: Basically, this bill relates to banning the importation, transportation, and possession of certain African wildlife species and products. “According to Safari Club International, in a move that thwarted public input, the New York State Senate pushed through an anti-hunting bill on June 14. The legislation, S 4325, known as the Big Five African Trophies Act, had lain dormant for three months in committee. Out of nowhere, it was pulled from committee and pushed through a full Senate vote in a matter of 72 hours. It will now head to the Assembly where companion bill, A 7556, will likely be taken up in the Assembly. This legislation ignores the benefits that US hunters, including those from New York, bring to African wildlife. African range states have repeatedly expressed the desire to maintain the flexibility to use hunting as part of their management strategy for these species. More importantly, they also want to maintain sovereignty over their own wildlife resources. For each of the species listed, the healthiest and most stable populations are in countries with active hunting programs. For example, at least two of the species targeted by these bills owe their recovery to hunting. In Africa in 1895, there were less than 100 white rhinos. Today, according to the International Union of Conservation of Nature

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(IUCN), there are an estimated 20,000 white rhinos largely in part to hunting programs and the conservation efforts associated with them. Sustainable, regulated hunting programs are responsible for increasing the number of black rhinos from approximately 1, 000 in the 1890s to more than 3,500 today. The IUCN reports that importation restrictions on species targeted by these bills such as the African elephant, black rhino, white rhino and African lion could likely cause serious declines of populations. Nevertheless, the drafters of these bills aimed to impose obstacles that are likely to undermine the conservation of these animals. We respect and share the feelings of the New York State Senate towards wanting to conserve the African species listed. In return, we would hope the elected officials of New York would respect the rights of hunters to engage in a legal, regulated activity with proven tangible conservation benefits to wildlife and local communities. Instead of seeking to criminalize New York’s hunters, members of the Assembly should consider leaving wildlife conservation to the experts or to wildlife managers in the sovereign African countries responsible for these species.” Action: Passed Senate-sent to Environment Conservation Committee.

A7627A/Aye/Woerner/D-Saratoga & Washington: According to the New York Crossbow Coalition, the following changes are suggested: “Changes crossbow to the bow hunting privilege from the muzzleloader privilege. Allows 12 – 15-year- olds to hunt with a crossbow- removes the prior prohibition on 12 and 13-year- olds. Authorizes those 55 years old or older to use a crossbow in a special archery season. Authorizes those physically unable to draw a longbow as determined by a physician to use a crossbow in a special archery season. Allows youth to hunt wild small game and upland birds with a crossbow. Changes the term bolt to arrow. Removes the 200-pound maximum draw weight and the minimum 17-inch width restriction. Repeals the prohibition on the use of mechanical device with a bow and authorization/permit for disabled hunters to use crossbows which may be discharged only using one’s breath. Authorizes DEC to adopt regulations authorizing the taking of wildlife using a crossbow and to include a summary of such regulations in the hunting syllabus. Reduces the setback to discharge a crossbow to 150 feet consistent with a longbow. “Action: referred to Environmental Conservation.

Respectfully,

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Paul W. Annetts-MJA-Whortlekill Rod & Gun Club Legislative Chairman

Federal Bills:

SR 204: “US Sen. Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) has introduced legislation to remove the UN Small Arms Treaty from Senate consideration and send it back to the White House where it can finally be killed. Some of the key provisions are: mandates countries to establish an actual National Control List which is a record-keeping system to track end users of small and light weapons for a minimum of 10 years; this is an international gun registry, clearly designated to include detailed information on American gun owners. Other language includes mandatory national screening for those seeking

18 | P a g e to own guns, giving bureaucrats the final say on whether or not you’re competent enough to own a gun; Restrictive Licensing for gun and ammo sales, and perhaps even bans on certain types of firearms. This can include anything from semi-automatic rifles to shotguns and handguns. Restrictions on the number of guns and amount of ammo any properly licensed individual may legally own; bans on magazines holding more than 10 rounds; and bans on only a firearm for self-defense unless a citizen can somehow demonstrate need and get federal government approval.”

S 3254/HR 5717: According to the New York State Firearms Association: “ While the entire country is distracted, Sen. Warren and Congressman Johnson have introduced the nastiest gun control bill in American history. If passed, this legislation would: create a national permit to buy a gun; establish a nationwide gun registry; institute a national red flag gun seizures law; bans virtually every semi-automatic rifle in the country; make it a felony to buy a high-capacity magazine; tax guns at 30% and ammo 50%; put you in jail for buying more than one gun a month; force you to lock up your firearms at all times; criminalize the sale of firearms to adults under 21; ban the sale of suppressors; make it a crime to build a firearm in your own home. And that’s just the start, as

19 | P a g e this gun control monstrosity is a whopping 111 pages long. Gun owners need to flood Washington DC with emails immediately. The need to know that we are watching this, we will hold politicians accountable if they support this bill.”

Legislators:

NEW YORK SENATOR SUE SERINO-41ST. DISTRICT4254 ALBANY POST ROAD, HYDE PARK, NY 12538 (845-229-0106)

ASSEMBLYMAN KIERAN LALOR-105TH. DISTRICT- NORTH HOPEWELL PLAZA, SUITE 1, 1075 ROUTE 82, HOPEWELL JUNCTION, NY 12533 (845-221-2202)

US CONGRESSMAN ANTONIO DELGADO – 19TH DISTRICT – 721 BROADWAY, KINGSTON, NY 12401 (845-514-2322)

ASSEMBLY WOMAN DIDI BARRETT – 106TH. DISTRICT –12 RAYMOND AVENUE, SUITE 105, POUGHKEEPSIE, NY 12603 (845-454-1703)

SENATOR – 40TH DISTRICT – PETER HARCKHAM – 40 GLENEIDA AVENUE, PUTNAM COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING, 3RD. FLOOR, CARMEL, NY 10512 (845-225-3025)

US CONGRESSMAN SEAN PATRICK MALONEY – 18TH DISTRICT – 123 GRAND STREET, NEWBURGH, NY 12550 (845-561- 1259)

US SENATOR KRISTEN GILLIBRAND– HUDSON VALLEY OFFICE, P.O. BOX 893, MAHOPAC, NY 10541 (845-875-4585)

US SENATOR CHARLES SCHUMER –ONE PARK PLACE, SUITE 100, PEEKSKILL, NY 10566 (914-734-1532)

GOV. A. CUOMO – THE HONORABLE ANDREW M. CUOMO, GOVERNOR OF NEW YORK, NEW YORK STATE CAPITOL BUILDING, ALBANY, NY 12224 (518-474-8390)

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTACTS:

WWW.2AWNY.COM

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Attorney Steven Felano P.O. Box 1366 Buffalo, N.Y. 14231

NEW YORK STATE FIREARMS ASSOCIATION 154 Cobblestone Court Drive, PMB 315 Victor, N.Y. 14564 1-585-542-8974 (www.newyorkstatefirearmsassociation.org) Executive Director Aaron Dorr

SHOOTERS COMMITTEE ON POLITICAL ACTION (SCOPE): WWW.SCOPENY.ORG

NEW YORK FIREARMS: WWW.NYFIREARMS.COM

SECOND AMENDMENT FOUNDATION: WWW.SAF.ORG

NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION: WWW.HOMENRA.ORG & NEW YORK STATE RIFLE AND PISTOL ASSOCIATION (NRA AFFILIATE): WWW.NYSRPA.ORG

GUN OWNERS OF AMERICA: WWW.GUNOWNERSOFAMERICA.ORG

NEW YORK CROSSBOW COALITION: WWW.NYCROSSBOWCOALITION.COM- 491 ALBION CROSS ROAD, PULASKI,NY 13142 (315-882-1540)

NEW YORK BOWHUNTERS,INC.-P.O. BOX 1157, CANANDAIGUA, NY 14424 (518-229-7468)

NEW YORK SAFE ACT: WWW.GOVERNOR.NY.GOV/NYSAFEACT/GUN-REFORM

NEW YORK STATE POLICE FIELD GUIDE TO THE NEW YORK STATE SAFE ACT: WWW.NYPDCEA.ORG/PDFS/NYSP_SAFE_ACT_FIELD_GUIDE

NEW YORK STATE CONSERVATION COUNCIL –WWW.NYSCC.COM

DUTCHESS COUNTY FEDERATION OF FISH AND GAME CLUBS: WWW.DUTCHESSFISHANDGAME.ORG

SUBMITTED BY:

PAUL W. ANNETTS-M.J.A. ([email protected]) CLUB’S LEGISLATIVE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CHAIRMAN/FILE

CC: SECRETARY-ROBIN MOORE

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POSTED ON DOWNSTAIRS BULLETIN BOARD

COPY TO FRANK KOVACS FOR CLUB INTERNET SITE