Bill > S03730

This bill modifies New York's Agriculture and Markets Law to expand the definition of aggravated cruelty to animals. The bill adds two key scenarios under which a person can be found guilty of aggravated cruelty: (1) intentionally killing or causing serious physical injury to a companion animal without justifiable purpose, and (2) recklessly engaging in conduct that creates a grave risk of serious physical injury or death to an animal, thereby actually causing serious physical injury or death. The bill clarifies that "aggravated cruelty" includes conduct intended to cause extreme physical pain or done in an especially depraved or sadistic manner. The language updates include replacing gendered pronouns with gender-neutral terms and provides more comprehensive legal language to describe scenarios of animal abuse. By broadening the definition and potential circumstances of aggravated cruelty, the bill aims to provide stronger legal protections for animals and more robust prosecution of individuals who intentionally harm companion animals.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3730