Legislation that would provide a tax credit for certified hunting safety course instructors has been introduced in the state Senate by Sen. Patty Ritchie (R-Heuvelton).

“Last year’s hunting season was the safest on record, thanks to the hundreds of men and women who volunteer their time to teach safety basics to new hunters across New York State,” said Ritchie, who represents the 48th Senate District, which includes all of the northern edge of St. Lawrence County from Massena to Hammond, including Ogdensburg, and plus Canton and Gouverneur

The measure, Senate bill 4961, would create a $300 tax credit for instructors of hunting safety courses, which aspiring hunters and trappers must complete in order to purchase a first-time sporting license. The tax credit would help volunteers pay necessary expenses, like mileage and equipment costs incurred while becoming certified and teaching courses.

“This legislation will recognize volunteers for the work they do to encourage safety and responsibility amongst aspiring hunters, as well as encourage other people to dedicate their time becoming certified hunting safety course instructors, which will make the sport safer for all sportsmen,” Ritchie said.

Ritchie encourages anyone looking for more information about hunting safety, how to become a hunting safety instructor, or a schedule of upcoming hunter safety courses required for first-time hunters, which are available from March through September, to visit the Department of Environmental Conservation website at www.dec.ny.gov.