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Introduced by and backed by the New York Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus, comprehensive legislation to allow 14 and 15 year-olds, who already are permitted to hunt small game in New York State, to also hunt deer and bear with a firearm under supervision has been signed into law. The legislation was introduced by NY Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus Co-Chairs, Senator Dale Volker and Assemblywomen Francine DelMonte. 
Senator Volker addresses hunters.
NASC held a briefing on the legislation in April at the NY state capitol, where Sen. Volker told his colleagues, "I am a firm believer that participating in hunting, fishing and the shooting sports can be extremely valuable by instilling in New York's youth an appreciation of the State's abundant natural resources and a responsibility to act as stewards to protect its precious resources for future generations. Sportsmen and women in New York have consistently supported the expansion of opportunities for youth and supported proposals that would enable them to hunt with their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. This legislation embraces this goal and instills a solid foundation for future New York hunters."
Prior to this legislation being signed into law, New York was the only state in the nation where 14 year-olds could not hunt big game with a firearm. Forty-six states allow 12 year-olds to hunt big game with a firearm.
"This is a very small step in the right direction. Ultimately, the hunting age should be lowered again to avoid missing the prime window of opportunity for engaging youngsters in hunting," said Rob Keck. "By making a kid wait that long before they can be an active participant, there is a high probability that something else will hook them. I applaud the a joint effort between Families Afield and NASC to get this bill passed. We'll take this small victory and continue the important efforts of lowering legal hunting ages across the country." Keck was instrumental in the Families Afield effort during his tenure at NWTF and serves on the board of CSF.
