Bill > A01557

This bill proposes to add new regulations to rodeos in New York State by prohibiting several specific practices that could potentially harm animals. The bill first defines key terms such as "calf roping" (capturing and binding a calf), "electric prod" (a device used to shock livestock into moving), "flank strap" (a tight strap causing animals to buck), and "spur with a fixed or sharpened rowel" (a sharp heel prod used to intensify animal bucking). The legislation would make it illegal for rodeo participants to engage in calf roping, use flank straps or bucking straps on livestock, use electric prods on animals, or use spurs with fixed or sharpened rowels. Violations would result in significant penalties, including civil fines of up to $10,000 per violation, revocation of rodeo operation permits or licenses, and venues hosting such rodeos would lose eligibility for state tax abatements. The bill aims to protect animal welfare by restricting practices that could cause discomfort, pain, or stress to livestock during rodeo performances, with each violation and each day a violation continues being considered a separate offense. The new regulations would take effect 30 days after becoming law.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1557