Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R,C,I-Chautauqua) to legalize rifle hunting in Chautauqua County South of Route 60 overwhelmingly passed the Assembly today. Under a two-year testing period, rifle hunting had been in effect in the county since 2011. With the legislation passed by the Assembly today, rifle hunting will now permanently be in effect.

“Hunting has long been an important tradition for our sportsmen, and rifle hunting across New York continues to be done in a safe and responsible matter,” said Goodell. “Each year, the data indicates that hunting with a rifle is safer than using a shotgun. This common-sense proposal has received positive feedback from our residents, as well as from sportsmen who travel to Chautauqua County and view our communities as sporting destinations. For our sportsmen, hunting is an important legacy, and I am proud to help continue the tradition.

“I want to thank Assemblyman Giglio and Senator Young for their support to help enact this important legislation. I will continue to do everything in my power to help not only our hunters enjoy the tremendous resources we have here in Chautauqua County,” Goodell concluded.

The bill, which already passed the Senate with Senator Young’s support, now awaits the Governor’s signature. This year, rifle season will begin on November 16.

Video of Assemblyman Goodell speaking about the legislation can be found at: http://youtu.be/mwkHom5nnz8.