Rozic's First Bill Passes in the State Assembly

State Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, D-Fresh Meadows, said that an environmental bill she introduced has been passed in the state Assembly, marking her first piece of legislation to get the approval of the legislative body.

Rozic’s bill would extend the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s authority to regulate and maintain the existing whelk and conch population, which she said is a vital part of making the environment sustainable.

“I am thrilled that the first bill I passed as a member of the New York State Assembly addresses the issue of protecting our environment,” Rozic said. “Since taking office five months ago, I have fought for a green and healthy New York State that betters our quality of life. The new law will deliver the message that New York’s economic future is a green future and will help protect our natural resources for future generations.”

The assemblywoman said that the depletion of certain marine populations throughout the state has resulted in a sharp increase in the demand for whelk and conch licenses and an increase in the harvesting of other populations, such as moon snails.

A study by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection shows a decrease in the weight of whelk and conch in the Long Island Sound, which is an indication that the species is being overharvested.