On Monday New York Governor George E. Pataki announced he has signed legislation that outlaws "online" hunting in New York State, whereby people are able to use the internet to fire real weapons at targets or animals in remote locations.

"Online hunting is an inappropriate and potentially dangerous activity that does not reflect the true sport of hunting," Governor Pataki said. "Hunters play an important role in environmental conservation, but these remote hunting games serve no useful purpose. By signing this legislation, we will uphold the proud tradition of hunting in the Empire State, while also preventing senseless accidents."

Senator Carl Marcellino said, "Hunting was never meant to be a video game. With the click of a mouse, a cyberhunter can kill an animal thousands of miles away. This law will stop New Yorkers from creating these barbaric websites and perpetuating this so called 'sport.' The practice of making road kill out of living animals via the information superhighway should be stopped now."

Under the law, it is illegal for any person or corporate entity to own or operate a shooting gallery or shooting range for the purpose of the online shooting or spearing of targets or animals. The law also prohibits the creation, maintenance or utilization of a website from any location within New York State for online hunting.

Online shooting and spearing means the discharge of a hunting firearm, bow and arrow, or mechanically-propelled blade, pike or harpoon from a remote location using a computer, an internet website, or a service or business.

Anyone who violates this law is subject to a fine of up to $2,500. The legislation was prompted by a website in another state that allows people to online hunt over the internet, using real ammunition to shoot targets and animals.

The law takes effect immediately.