Bill > A05815

This bill enhances legal protections for companion animals in orders of protection across multiple areas of New York law, including family court, criminal procedure, and domestic relations law. Specifically, the bill expands the court's authority to include provisions that not only prevent a respondent from harming a companion animal but also grant the petitioner exclusive care, custody, or control of the animal. The bill defines a "companion animal" using the existing definition from the agriculture and markets law and allows courts to order that the respondent stay away from the animal, refrain from transferring or concealing the animal, and prohibit the respondent from taking, harming, or disposing of the animal. These provisions apply to animals owned, possessed, leased, kept, or held by the petitioner, the respondent, or a minor child living in either household. The changes are designed to provide additional safeguards for pets in situations involving domestic disputes or potential abuse, recognizing that companion animals can be vulnerable and important to the well-being of family members. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5815