Local leaders and wildlife groups faced off at the Legislature this week over a proposal that’s already legal in New York — but only if counties opt in.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Local leaders and wildlife groups met Thursday in the Erie County Legislature to debate a measure that would allow 12 and 13-year-olds to hunt.
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The discussion revisits a proposal previously vetoed over safety concerns by County Executive Mark Poloncarz. The law, approved by New York State in 2021 but requiring counties to opt in, is back under consideration as supporters argue it has a strong safety record statewide.
The measure had earlier passed in Erie County with bipartisan support before being rejected by Poloncarz, who cited safety concerns. Lawmakers are now taking another look, with proponents emphasizing that the program allows young hunters to participate under adult supervision.
Erie County Legislator Lindsay Lorigo, a Republican representing District 10, criticized the earlier veto and voiced support for the proposal.
“It’s a personal decision that the county executive has that he is opposed to this. It’s not based on the facts,” Lorigo said. “We know it is safer when we are allowing youth to hunt with a mentor. We know that this has been a successful program statewide, so I think it’s just really important that we allow this opportunity here in Erie County, and let’s keep people hunting in Erie County. It’s good for small businesses, and it’s good for our deer population.”
Supporters of the measure say expanding youth hunting opportunities could benefit local economies and help manage deer populations, while opponents have raised concerns about safety.
The proposal will next move to a public hearing, after which lawmakers are expected to vote. Legislators say they are confident they have enough support to override the county executive’s veto.