Lawmakers have sent a NRA-supported measure to Governor George Pataki’s (R) desk. A 4853A/S 918A will allow hunters to use a rifle during open season for deer and bear in the counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chenango, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, Oswego, Otsego, Schoharie and Tioga, as well as certain rural towns in Broome County in those areas east of the Susquehanna River. In addition to increasing hunting opportunities in New York State, this measure will go far in alleviating the dramatic rise in deer/car collisions and crop damage resulting from a drop off in hunters and a rise in deer population. Thanks go out to all who voted for this measure, but most importantly to sponsor Assemblywoman Francine DelMonte (D-138). Please contact Governor Pataki, at (518) 474-8390, and ask him to sign A 4853A/S 918A into law!
With just days left in the legislative session, many gun-related measures are still pending. In the Senate are A 673, which creates the crimes of failure to store a weapon "safely" and criminally negligent storage of a firearm; A 2302, which would prohibit the retail sale of a handgun that does not contain a "child proofing" or integrated safety device; A 4471/S 2590, which would ban the sale, use and possession of .50 caliber firearms; A 2345, which would impose new restrictions on firearm dealers; and two bills which would expand the state’s ban on "assault weapons," A 2466 and S 5504. Please contact your State Senator today and urge him or her to oppose all of the above measures! You can reach your Senator by calling (518) 455-2800.
A 6608, an NRA-backed proposal which would exempt shooting ranges already in existence from new local noise ordinances, awaits action in the Assembly. Please contact your Assembly member today and urge him or her to support A 6608! Your Assembly member can be reached by calling (518) 455-4100.