Bill > S06733

This bill establishes a new $5 fee for animal offenses that will be added to existing mandatory surcharges for criminal convictions at the felony, misdemeanor, and violation levels. The collected funds will be deposited into a new "animal offenses assistance fund" administered by the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets. The fund will provide financial support to animal shelters that care for animals seized or surrendered due to abuse or other animal-related offenses. Animal shelters can apply for funds through a process that demonstrates their specific needs for caring for abused and neglected animals, including expenses for food, shelter, and veterinary care. The bill carefully defines "animal shelter" to include public and non-profit entities that provide temporary or permanent housing for animals, while explicitly excluding certain facilities like boarding kennels, pet dealers, and personal residences. The fund will be maintained by the state comptroller, with any interest earned remaining in the fund, and funds will be distributed based on the commissioner's approval and audit. By creating this dedicated funding source, the bill aims to provide additional financial resources to support animal shelters in caring for animals that have been victims of abuse or neglect.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6733