Bill > S01632

This bill amends the New York Agriculture and Markets Law to add two new definitions and exempt certain working dogs from municipal licensing fees. Specifically, the bill defines "livestock guardian dogs" as dogs used to protect livestock from predators, and "herding dogs" as dogs trained to herd cattle, sheep, or other livestock. The legislation changes existing law to mandate (rather than just allow) that municipalities exempt these two types of working dogs, along with other previously exempted service dogs like guide dogs, hearing dogs, and therapy dogs, from dog licensing fees. Each dog's license will now be required to be marked with its specific type, including the new "Livestock Guardian Dog" or "Herding Dog" designations. The purpose of this bill appears to be supporting agricultural workers by reducing administrative and financial burdens associated with licensing working dogs that play critical roles in farming and livestock management. The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1632