New York S07718 mandates whale strike prevention policies for large vessels and sets penalties for non-compliance.

New York S07718, also known as the "whale strike prevention act," requires owners of commercial vessels 500 feet or longer to establish whale interaction prevention policies. These policies must include considerations such as federal and international best practices, scientific understanding of whale interactions, and speed reduction measures. The Department of Environmental Conservation will review these policies for compliance and can impose fines for non-compliance. The bill also authorizes the Department to board and inspect vessels to ensure compliance.

New York S07718 mandates whale strike prevention policies for large vessels and sets penalties for non-compliance.

New York S07718, also known as the "whale strike prevention act," requires owners of commercial vessels 500 feet or longer to establish whale interaction prevention policies. These policies must include considerations such as federal and international best practices, scientific understanding of whale interactions, and speed reduction measures. The Department of Environmental Conservation will review these policies for compliance and can impose fines for non-compliance. The bill also authorizes the Department to board and inspect vessels to ensure compliance.