Bill > A06185

This bill amends the New York State agriculture and markets law to add two new definitions and update dog licensing requirements. Specifically, the bill defines "livestock guardian dogs" as dogs used to protect livestock from predators, and "herding dogs" as dogs trained to herd cattle, sheep, or other livestock. The legislation changes municipal dog licensing regulations from an optional to a mandatory exemption for these types of working dogs, alongside existing exemptions for guide dogs, hearing dogs, service dogs, war dogs, working search dogs, detection dogs, police work dogs, and therapy dogs. Municipalities will now be required to waive licensing fees for livestock guardian and herding dogs, and must mark their license copies with the appropriate designation. This change aims to support agricultural workers by reducing the administrative and financial burden of licensing working dogs that play critical roles in farming and livestock management. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6185