Bill > S00470

This bill, known as "Kirby and Quigley's Law," expands the legal definition of aggravated cruelty to animals in New York State by adding a new provision that makes it a crime to harm a companion animal during the commission of a felony. The existing law already prohibited intentionally killing or causing serious physical injury to a companion animal without justification. The new amendment creates a second category of aggravated cruelty that specifically addresses situations where a person causes physical injury or death to a companion animal while committing a felony or immediately fleeing from one. The bill defines "physical injury" by referencing specific definitions in the state's legal code and maintains the existing definition of "aggravated cruelty" as conduct intended to cause extreme physical pain or carried out in an especially depraved or sadistic manner. By adding this provision, the law aims to provide additional legal protection for companion animals and impose stricter penalties on individuals who harm animals during the course of committing serious crimes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S470