Bill > S03073

This bill establishes a comprehensive civil legal mechanism for protecting companion animals that are not receiving proper care, creating a new article in New York's agriculture and markets law that allows authorized agents (such as police officers or animal cruelty prevention society agents) to intervene when animals are being mistreated. The bill defines "mistreatment" as any act that causes unnecessary psychological or physical injury, or failure to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. If an authorized agent believes an animal is not being properly cared for, they can first notify the owner in writing, specifying required care improvements. If the owner fails to comply, the agent can petition the supreme court for an emergency care and inspection order, which allows for immediate intervention, including the potential inspection of the animal, restrictions on the owner's actions (like transferring or euthanizing the animal), and a mandatory hearing within ten days. At the animal care hearing, the authorized agent must prove by a preponderance of evidence that the animal was mistreated, and if successful, the court can order the animal's forfeiture to an impounding organization and prohibit the owner from possessing other companion animals. The bill also provides a clear appeals process and ensures that the legal proceedings do not prevent other existing animal protection laws from being enforced.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3073