Bill > S01784

This bill amends the agriculture and markets law to require property owners or lessors to inspect properties that have been vacated due to eviction, foreclosure, mortgage default, or abandonment within three days of knowing the property is vacant. If the owner, lessor, or their designee finds an abandoned animal during this inspection, they must immediately notify local authorities like dog control officers, police, or animal protection societies to retrieve or care for the animal. The bill imposes civil penalties of up to $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses for failing to conduct the required inspection, with collected funds going to the animal population control fund. Importantly, the person who finds the abandoned animal is not considered the animal's owner or caretaker, and the law does not limit the ability of animal protection or law enforcement agencies to enforce existing animal welfare laws. This legislation aims to ensure the safety and prompt care of animals potentially left behind during property transitions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1784