Bill > S03491

This bill amends the New York Agriculture and Markets Law to increase the potential prison sentence for aggravated cruelty to animals when the offense is committed in the presence of a child. Currently, the maximum prison term for aggravated animal cruelty is two years, but the bill increases this to four years if the crime is committed with a child witnessing the act. The bill specifically defines "in the presence of a child" as being in the physical presence of a child under 18 years old, where the perpetrator knows or has reason to know the child is present and can see or hear the act of animal cruelty. The purpose appears to be to create a more severe penalty when animal abuse occurs in front of children, potentially recognizing the psychological harm such an experience could cause. The amendment will go into effect 180 days after becoming law, giving time for legal and law enforcement systems to prepare for the change.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3491