Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) announced today that the Assembly passed a bill that, if signed into law, will designate free fishing events for veterans and active duty members. Those who qualify for the events would not need to purchase a New York State fishing license.

Last week Barclay announced that the bill passed out of the Environmental Conservation committee of the Assembly. This week,the bill, A4263, was put to a vote in the Assembly and passed. It was then delivered to the Senate.

If the bill becomes law, it would allow the Department of Environmental Conservation to designate organized fishing events that “provide physical and emotional rehabilitation for current and former Members of the Armed Services.” The bill would make it so any veteran or active duty service member would qualify for these free events.

“I’m pleased this bill passed the Assembly. I know similar projects have been successful in other parts of the country and in Central New York with a program called Project Healing Waters. These gatherings help veterans and service members reach out and strengthen camaraderie,” said Barclay. “By removing the need to purchase a license for these events, hopefully,more veterans and active duty members will be able take advantage of the free fishing clinics,” added Barclay.

Assemblyman Barclay serves on the Environmental Conservation Committee in the Assembly. Barclay is a sponsor of the legislation that passed. The author of the bill is Assemblyman Magee.