S8067

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 8067, a bill to amend the Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Law, by a vote of 61-0 on a roll call. The measure, sponsored by Sen. Skoufis, would allow veterans and Gold Star families to visit public campsites, parks and other recreational facilities free of charge. During floor debate, Sen. Helming proposed an amendment that would have extended the bill's veteran benefits by eliminating sporting license fees for honorably discharged veterans with a 40 percent or greater service-connected disability. Helming argued the amendment was germane, citing studies showing that roughly 7 percent of all veterans and 29 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans experience post-traumatic stress disorder, and that hunting, fishing and trapping can provide therapeutic mental health benefits. Acting President Cooney ruled the amendment nongermane under Senate Rule 6, Section 4B. Lanza appealed the ruling, and Helming was heard on the appeal, but the chair's ruling was sustained on a show of hands vote, 20-0. The underlying bill then passed on the roll call vote.