New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt and Owners of Escarpment Arms Call on Governor Kathy Hochul to Sign Big Game Hunting by Rifle Bill Into Law

Lockport, NY –  Today, standing with the owners of Escarpment Arms, New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt called on NYS Gov. Kathy Hochul to sign Senate Bill S.8382B, which would allow for rifle hunting of big game in Niagara County, into law. 

 

The bill passed the Senate and the Assembly with wide, bi-partisan support and will amend existing conservation laws at no cost to taxpayers. After passing both houses, the bill now awaits Gov. Hochul’s signature to become law. Until then, the current prohibition on big game rifle hunting in Niagara County will continue.

 

“I, along with my partners in the Assembly, are calling on Governor Hochul to sign this bill prior to deer and bear hunting season. In Niagara County, sportsmen have been waiting a long time to be able to partake in the tradition of hunting big game by rifle within county limits,” said Senator Ortt. “Niagara County remains one of the last counties upstate where rifle hunting is prohibited. At the request of county residents and lawmakers, this bill aims to change that and allow more opportunities for hunters to exercise an American tradition.” 

 

The bill does have limitations. Cities within the county, including Lockport, North Tonawanda and Niagara Falls will be excluded from rifle hunting.

 

Once signed by Governor Hochul, the bill will immediately go into effect.