Bill > S01743

This bill amends Section 371 of the Agriculture and Markets Law to change the language regarding the powers of peace officers and animal cruelty prevention agents. Specifically, the bill modifies the mandatory actions of constables, police officers, and agents of animal cruelty prevention societies when they encounter violations of animal protection laws. Instead of using permissive language like "may," the bill now requires these officers to "shall" take specific actions, including issuing an appearance ticket, summoning or arresting, and bringing offenders before a court or magistrate with jurisdiction. The bill also updates the language to be more gender-neutral by replacing "his" with "such officer's or agent's" and removes the specific reference to "article twenty-six" in favor of a more general reference to "this article." The changes effectively strengthen the enforcement obligations of peace officers and animal protection agents when witnessing potential animal cruelty violations. The act will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1743