The room was packed with supporters of the youth big game hunting (Local Law Intro. 3-1).  Only one uninformed person spoke against the proposed law with a presentation riddled with fiction. The County Executive listened to all the presentations while taking notes – ever mindful of the news cameras recording this session.  Many supporters spoke on record stating their experiences.  Among them were seasoned firearms and hunting safety instructors.

The most powerful statements were delivered from ECFSC President Jack Coad – himself a NYS instructor, NYSCC 2nd Vice President Brian Krawczyk, ECFSC Director Jim Steel and Cheektowaga Town Supervisor Brian Nowak, a non-hunter that supported parents rights to decide if their children are ready for big game hunting.

Unfortunately, Poloncarz vetoed the law overwhelmingly approved by the Legislature.  He chose to ignore the facts, data, or the actual safety record of New York’s youth hunting program.  We are hopeful that the common sense of the Erie County Legislature will prevail and override this veto.