Seems like a no-brainer to me...
GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES SIGNING OF LEGISLATION THAT OUTLAWS ON-LINE HUNTING IN NEW YORK
New Law Prohibits Remote Hunting Via the Internet
Governor George E. Pataki today announced he has signed legislation that outlaws on-line hunting in New York State, whereby people are able to use the internet to fire real weapons at targets or animals in remote locations.
On-line hunting is an inappropriate and potentially dangerous activity that does not reflect the true sport of hunting, Governor Pataki said. Hunters play an important role in environmental conservation, but these remote hunting games serve no useful purpose. By signing this legislation, we will uphold the proud tradition of hunting in the Empire State, while also preventing senseless accidents.
Senator Carl Marcellino said, Hunting was never meant to be a video game. With the click of a mouse, a cyberhunter can kill an animal thousands of miles away. This law will stop New Yorkers from creating these barbaric websites and perpetuating this so called sport. The practice of making road kill out of living animals via the information superhighway should be stopped now.
Assemblywoman Deborah Glick said, Im deeply gratified by the united opposition to this unconscionable activity. To reduce hunting to a computer game with live ammunition is totally irresponsible.
State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan said, Hunting is an experience that connects men and women to nature, to wildlife, and to the rich natural resources of an ecosystem. This appalling online activity has no relation to hunting, nor the proud outdoor heritage established here in New York by Americas pioneers. I applaud Governor Pataki and the Legislature for their action on this measure, which reinforces the tradition of New York's sporting community.
Under the law, it is illegal for any person or corporate entity to own or operate a shooting gallery or shooting range for the purpose of the on-line shooting or spearing of targets or animals. The law also prohibits the creation, maintenance or utilization of a website from any location within New York State for on-line hunting.
On-line shooting and spearing means the discharge of a hunting firearm, bow and arrow, or mechanically-propelled blade, pike or harpoon from a remote location using a computer, an internet website, or a service or business.
Anyone who violates this law is subject to a fine of up to $2,500. The legislation was prompted by a website in another state that allows people to on-line hunt over the internet, using real ammunition to shoot targets and animals.
The law takes effect immediately. ###
