The New York Legislature convened on June 5, 2025, to discuss significant environmental legislation concerning the regulation of horseshoe crabs. The proposed bill extends the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) authority to regulate horseshoe crabs for an additional two years, prohibiting their capture except for bona fide educational or scientific purposes starting in 2026.

During the session, lawmakers highlighted the ecological importance of horseshoe crabs, which are considered a keystone species vital for the survival of various migratory birds, including the red knot, now classified as a threatened species. The bill's sponsor emphasized the need to protect horseshoe crab populations, which have been declining in New York waters, and noted that the continued harvesting of these creatures could further endanger both the crabs and the species that rely on them.

A significant point of contention arose regarding the use of horseshoe crab blood in biomedical applications. Horseshoe crab blood is crucial for testing the safety of vaccines and medical supplies. Some legislators argued for a carve-out in the legislation to allow for the harvesting of horseshoe crabs for medical testing if synthetic alternatives prove insufficient. However, the bill's supporters pointed out that synthetic testing methods have been successfully implemented and that further harvesting could jeopardize the already vulnerable horseshoe crab population.

The debate underscored the tension between environmental conservation and the needs of the biomedical industry. Ultimately, the bill passed with a vote of 98 in favor and 47 against, reflecting a strong legislative commitment to protecting the horseshoe crab while navigating the complexities of its biomedical significance. The legislation is set to take effect immediately, marking a pivotal step in New York's environmental policy.