(Albany, NY)- Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) is pleased to announce that his bill,  S.4368, has passed the Senate. This bill would instruct the Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to work with the Board of Regents to develop an education program that local school districts could choose to utilize, relating to hunting, fishing and outdoor education as a means to present students in grades nine through twelve with information about outdoor recreation opportunities.

 “This bill will give students the opportunity to learn more about hunting, fishing and outdoor education, while simultaneously encouraging them to lead an active lifestyle,” said Bonacic. “Over the last decade, the percentage of overweight and obese high school students has increased dramatically. By providing this choice in schools, at their option, we can help lower that percentage and motivate youth to enjoy the outdoors as a healthier alternative to playing video games, watching television, or surfing the internet.”

The bill now moves to the Assembly.