New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10986

Introduced
4/14/26  

Caption

Prohibits the use of trawling, gill nets, and trammel nets except for scientific purposes.

Impact

The enactment of A10986 will have substantial implications for both commercial and recreational fishing operations across the state. Commercial fishing vessels that rely on trawling or net fishing may face economic challenges due to reduced catch abilities and the need to adapt to new regulations. Environmental groups advocate for the bill, suggesting that it will enhance the stability of fish stocks and the health of marine ecosystems. However, industry representatives express concerns about the potential loss of livelihood, as many fishermen depend on these methods of fishing for their income.

Summary

Bill A10986 aims to amend the New York Environmental Conservation Law by prohibiting the use of trawling, gill nets, and trammel nets, with exceptions made only for scientific purposes. This legislation emphasizes the need to protect aquatic ecosystems and promote sustainable fishing practices. By eliminating these fishing methods, the bill seeks to address concerns regarding overfishing and its detrimental impact on fish populations, particularly in sensitive habitats such as Long Island Sound and adjacent waters.

Contention

Significant points of contention surrounding A10986 arise from the balance between environmental protection and the livelihoods of fishermen. Proponents of the bill argue that prohibiting these fishing methods is necessary to safeguard marine life, whereas opponents are apprehensive about the economic repercussions for the fishing community. The debate may extend into discussions regarding alternative fishing methods and how to best support the transition for those affected by this legislation.

Companion Bills

NY S09304

Same As Prohibits the use of trawling, gill nets, and trammel nets except for scientific purposes.

Previously Filed As

NY S09304

Prohibits the use of trawling, gill nets, and trammel nets except for scientific purposes.

NY AB1056

Gill nets: permits.

NY A01248

Prohibits the knowing sale, offer for sale, or delivery of xylazine to persons under the age of 21 and without proof of the intended use for institutional, veterinary, or scientific purposes.

NY S07668

Prohibits the knowing sale of xylazine above a certain weight to persons under the age of 21 and without proof of the intended use for institutional, veterinary, or scientific purposes.

NY S07421

Provides that no person shall engage in the operation of a marine hatchery or in the off-bottom or on-bottom culture of any species belonging to the order Octopoda unless for scientific or educational purposes for the purpose of human consumption.

NY S457

Expands list of animals prohibited from use in traveling animal acts; limits certain exceptions to apply only at educational institutions.

NY A497

Expands list of animals prohibited from use in traveling animal acts; limits certain exceptions to apply only at educational institutions.

NY HB1246

Prohibits the use of fetal organs or tissue resulting from abortions for medical, scientific, research, experimental, or therapeutic purposes or any other use

NY A10222

Includes delivery network company workers in the definition of "employee" for purposes of workers' compensation; provides that the employer of a network company deliver worker shall be a delivery network company.

NY S09813

Includes delivery network company workers in the definition of "employee" for purposes of workers' compensation; provides that the employer of a network company deliver worker shall be a delivery network company.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.