The Legislature and Governor recently reached a final state budget agreement, which aids the tourism and the fishing industry on Long Island by repealing the state’s $10 recreational marine fishing license fee.
The agreement directs the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to establish a free registry to take the place of the marine fishing license. The new registry is expected to be in place by early June. In the meantime, saltwater anglers may temporarily fish without a marine license and without registering with DEC.
The DEC will also issue refunds to holders of a lifetime recreational marine fishing license, minus the fee for the last year. Information on how to apply for a refund will be announced by the DEC at a later date.
For more on the final state budget, visit the New York State Assembly’s Web site. The site is also an informative resource on issues facing our state – including links to Assembly members, bill searches, Assembly committee news, and other communications designed to keep you connected to state government.
Again, thank you for keeping me updated on matters of importance to you. Your input helps me to better serve our state.
Sincerely,
Sheldon Silver