New York joins the Movement to End Wildlife-Killing Contests - National Humane Education Society

Paws Up! New York Governor Signs Legislation to End Wildlife Killing Contests

February 14th, 2024

The forests across our nation are teeming with fascinating animals, and the predators of this landscape stand out as iconic figures of the wild world. But these creatures are much more than just symbols of cunning, loyalty, or resilience: they are intelligent, sensitive beings that deserve our protection. This truth was acknowledged by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul in her signing of legislation S.4099/A.2917.

This law ensures

• It will be unlawful to organize, conduct, or sponsor a contest of hunting wildlife
• It will be unlawful to participate in such a competition 
• These practices will be banned regardless if the reward is prize money or “entertainment”

 This is an excellent step forward for the people of New York, but unfortunately not all of the creatures of their state will be protected. Exceptions are made in the bill for hunting White-tailed deer, bear, turkey, and fish. While we at the National Humane Education Society want protection species to be provided protection from harm, this is progress in the shift of public and legal perception against such hunting practices. New York joins the ranks of Arizona, California, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Vermont, and Washington in outlawing such contests, and hopefully many more states will be added in the near future. 

There is still much progress to make, particularly in the Midwest where laws protecting animals such as wolves from hunting are very few. It is important we continue to share our messages of empathy towards animals, whether they live in the wild or in our homes. This law may not solve the very serious issues of hunting, but we hope that it will add momentum to a movement that will bring a more humane world for all.

Take Action: New York residents, Thank Governor Hochul for helping to decrease the suffering wildlife face at the hands of humans. 

Photo Credits: Image by Marcel Langthim from Pixabay, Image by Steve Fehlberg from Pixabay