Bill > A02143

This bill requires various animal shelters, humane societies, animal control facilities, and pet dealers in New York State to microchip stray or homeless dogs and cats before making them available for adoption. Specifically, the bill mandates that these organizations must microchip any abandoned, lost, or unwanted dogs or cats that do not already have a microchip. Additionally, these organizations must provide both written and verbal instructions on how to register or update microchip contact information, and they must confirm that the new owner has registered or amended the contact information with the microchip company before releasing the animal. The bill applies to pounds, shelters, and facilities operated by or under contract with counties, cities, towns, or villages, as well as pet dealers. The goal is to improve animal tracking, increase the likelihood of reuniting lost pets with their owners, and ensure that new pet owners have the necessary information to maintain their contact details in microchip databases. The legislation amends several sections of New York's agriculture and markets law to implement these requirements, with most provisions taking effect immediately.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2143