Bill > A06918

This bill amends the Agriculture and Markets Law to increase the penalties for individuals who commit multiple animal cruelty offenses. Specifically, the bill states that a person who is convicted of an animal cruelty offense under Section 353 of the law and has a previous conviction under the same section within the past 10 years is guilty of a Class D felony. Additionally, if a person is convicted of the newly created offense of "aggravated cruelty to animals" and has a previous conviction under this section, they are guilty of a Class C felony. The bill aims to deter repeat offenders and enhance the consequences for those who commit egregious acts of animal cruelty.