For Immediate Release:
DATE: January 18, 2024
CONTACT: Michael Iasilli
PHONE: (631) 287-5745
Southampton Town Councilmember Michael Iasilli issued a letter of support for Assembly Bill A.508, which amends the environmental conservation law, in relation to prohibiting the state’s participation in artificial pheasant propagation activities for hunters.
In late November, Humane Long Island discovered 30 dead pheasants along Sunrise Highway. Other pheasants are currently being treated for a variety of injuries at the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Center in Hampton Bays.
The legislation, sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal of Manhattan, would make it unlawful to participate or to promote the breeding or distributing of artificially propagated pheasants to provide game bird hunting opportunities. According to a Newday article, the program costs the state $750,000 a year and may come at a cost to the welfare of some of these pheasants and may present public safety issues.
“I’m urging the state to prohibit these activities as it may unintentionally put wildlife in distress,” stated Councilmember Iasilli. “Taxpayer money would be better spent on conservation projects that protect wildlife and the environment, and other needs of the community.”
The new law would go into effect on February 28, 2024.
