A bill moving in the New York Senate makes certain hunting competitions illegal. As written, however, Senate Bill 4099 contains important amendments requested by the AKC to protect training and performance events.
Summary:
Senate Bill 4099 is similar to bills introduced in previous sessions that would make it unlawful to organize, sponsor, or participate in any competition with the object of “taking or hunting wildlife for prizes or other inducement, or for entertainment.”
AKC worked closely with legislators in previous years and was successful in getting the bill amended to exempt dog training areas, field trials, or “any similar canine performance events.” Other sportsmen groups were successful in obtaining exemptions for hunting competitions for deer, turkey, or bear.
AKC is pleased that our exemption for performance events and dog training continues to be included in this year’s bill. The other sporting exemptions are also included.
The companion Assembly Bill 2917 is pending in the Assembly Codes Committee.
What You Can Do:
AKC remains neutral so long as the important protections for performance events and training remain in the bill. Those who wish to contact their State Senator may do so by using the “Find My Senator” tool on the State Senate website.
AKC Government Relations continues to closely monitor all bills in New York with the potential to impact dog owners. For more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.