Extends the authority of the department of environmental conservation to manage Atlantic herring

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Monica Martinez

Extends DEC authority to manage Atlantic herring in New York waters through Dec 31, 2029, maintaining current framework and ongoing regulatory oversight.

ADVANCED TO THIRD READING

Summary of Bill S 10039 (2025-2026) – New York

Purpose and intent

The bill extends the authority of the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to manage Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in state waters.

Specifically, it prolongs DEC’s regulatory authority over Atlantic herring through December 31, 2029.

Key provisions

Section 1 amends environmental conservation law, section 13-0339-a, subdivision 1, paragraph d.

The amendment extends the period during which Atlantic herring management authority is in effect from December 31, 2026 to December 31, 2029.

The rest of the environmental conservation law remains intact; the change is solely the extension of DEC management authority for Atlantic herring.

Who/what is affected

State regulatory framework: DEC, as the agency responsible for managing Atlantic herring within New York waters.

Atlantic herring fishery stakeholders: commercial and recreational fishermen, fishing industry participants, and associated sectors that rely on DEC management measures (e.g., harvest limits, seasonal closures, gear restrictions) for Atlantic herring.

General public: beneficiaries of DEC management, including environmental protections and sustainable fishery practices aimed at maintaining healthy herring stocks.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Effective date: The act takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Legislative timeline: Introduced by Sen. Martinez at the request of DEC; advanced through the legislative process with multiple committee reviews (Environmental Conservation) and readings leading to passage.

Current status (as of the provided history): Referred to Environmental Conservation on 2026-04-24; advanced to third reading by 2026-05-07.

Practical implications

Continuity of management: Ensures ongoing DEC oversight of Atlantic herring beyond 2026, reducing regulatory uncertainty for the fishery.

Potential impact on harvest rules: DEC may continue or adjust existing management measures (catch limits, seasonal restrictions, and conservation measures) as part of its ongoing oversight through 2029.

Administrative considerations: Agencies and stakeholders should anticipate continued regulatory oversight and potential future rulemaking related to Atlantic herring during the extension period.

Summary

Bill S 10039 simply extends the DEC’s authority to manage Atlantic herring in New York waters through December 31, 2029, maintaining the current framework and allowing continued regulatory oversight and potential future adjustments to protect the stock and support the fishery. The immediate effect is a seamless extension to avoid gaps in management authority.