Bill > S00675

This bill establishes new safety requirements for transporting dogs in the open cargo areas of motor vehicles, aiming to prevent dogs from being ejected during transport. Specifically, the bill mandates that when transporting a dog in an open cargo space, vehicle owners must either: enclose the space, install side and tail racks at least 46 inches high, have mechanisms to prevent dog ejection, or use cross-tethering or a secured container/cage that prevents the dog from being thrown from the vehicle. The law includes some exemptions for farmers, ranchers, and travel on roads with speed limits under 55 miles per hour. Violations will result in progressively increasing fines: the first offense carries a fine between $50-$100, the second offense within a year increases to $75-$200, and third or subsequent offenses within a year will result in fines between $100-$250. The goal of the legislation appears to be improving animal safety during transportation and preventing potential injuries or deaths of dogs being transported in open vehicle cargo areas.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S675