Young hunters in Sullivan gain rights

By ANNEMARIE SCHUETZ
Posted 6/9/21

MONTICELLO, NY — “One of the reasons I taught my kids to understand about guns is so they could understand how dangerous they are and how to use them properly,” said legislator Luis Alvarez. He gave his son a rifle “so he could see how the bullet would hit something and cause damage.”

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Young hunters in Sullivan gain rights

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MONTICELLO, NY — “One of the reasons I taught my kids to understand about guns is so they could understand how dangerous they are and how to use them properly,” said legislator Luis Alvarez. He gave his son a rifle “so he could see how the bullet would hit something and cause damage.”

In a brief special meeting on June 3, the county legislators authorized 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt in season with a rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader or crossbow in Sullivan. They can’t be alone; a licensed adult hunter with three years of experience needs to be with them and able to intervene if necessary.

It’s connected to a new, temporary state law. Counties had to opt in.

Black bear hunting by 12- and 13-year-olds is still prohibited, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

“I think it’ll be a benefit to our county and most importantly, to our youth,” said Tim Manzolillo, who gave public comment.

“I’m not a gun-toting type of gal,” said legislator Nadia Rajsz, “but allowing 12- and 13-year-olds to be educated in handling rifles... having safety courses and being supervised, I think that is the way to go.”

“Hunting is understanding conservation, it’s understanding nature, and the relationship of that animal you’re hunting in the overall environment,” legislator Alan Sorensen added. “I’m very much in support of this.”

Legislators agreed and the resolution passed, 9-0.

Monticello, Legislators, Hunters, Firearms

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