New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A02421

Introduced
1/16/25  
Refer
1/16/25  

Caption

Prohibits the operation of establishments where animals and/or fowls are slaughtered or butchered for food; establishes a task force on public health risks and animal welfare concerns of slaughterhouses.

Summary

Bill A02421 aims to prohibit the operation of establishments where animals and/or fowls are slaughtered for food in New York State. The legislation is introduced in response to concerns about zoonotic diseases, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been linked to live animal markets. The bill seeks to eliminate potential vectors for disease transmission and to address ongoing health and safety issues reported at these markets. Additionally, it establishes a task force to examine the public health risks and animal welfare concerns associated with slaughterhouses, which will report its findings and recommendations within a year.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the agricultural landscape in New York by closing down all establishments involved in the slaughtering of animals and fowls for food. This prohibition would affect farmers, butchers, and related businesses, potentially leading to economic repercussions in the agricultural sector. The establishment of the task force would also lead to a comprehensive review of current practices and regulations surrounding animal slaughter, which could result in further legislative changes based on their findings.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A02421 appears to be cautiously supportive among public health advocates and animal welfare organizations, who see it as a necessary step to prevent disease outbreaks. However, there may be opposition from agricultural stakeholders and businesses that rely on slaughterhouses, who may view the bill as an overreach that threatens their livelihoods and food supply chains.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between public health and economic impact on the agricultural sector. Advocates for the bill argue that the health risks posed by live animal markets necessitate immediate action, while opponents may argue that the bill could harm local economies and disrupt food supply chains. Additionally, there may be debates over the effectiveness of such a ban in actually preventing disease transmission compared to other regulatory measures.

Companion Bills

NY S05017

Same As Prohibits the operation of establishments where animals and/or fowls are slaughtered or butchered for food; establishes a task force on public health risks and animal welfare concerns of slaughterhouses.

Previously Filed As

NY A00959

Prohibits the operation of establishments where animals and/or fowls are slaughtered or butchered for food; establishes a task force on public health risks and animal welfare concerns of slaughterhouses.

NY S05017

Prohibits the operation of establishments where animals and/or fowls are slaughtered or butchered for food; establishes a task force on public health risks and animal welfare concerns of slaughterhouses.

NY A00386

Requires the owner of any place or establishment where animals or fowls are slaughtered or butchered for food to reimburse costs associated with capture and return or rescue and rehabilitation of escaped animals.

NY A00633

Requires the owner of any place or establishment where animals or fowls are slaughtered or butchered for food to reimburse costs associated with capture and return or rescue and rehabilitation of escaped animals.

NY HB05264

An Act Concerning Service Animals In Insurance Underwriting, The Appointment Of An Advocate In Proceedings Concerning The Welfare Or Custody Of Companion Animals, Assault Of A Domestic Animal And Establishing An Animal Abuse Task Force.

NY A4156

Prohibits surgical declawing of cats and other animals.

NY S1764

Prohibits surgical declawing of cats and other animals.

NY HB506

Animal slaughterhouse; VDACS, et al., additional slaughterhouse in Northern Virginia, report.

NY S3080

Establishes transporting for slaughter, selling or otherwise providing for slaughter, or slaughtering gestating cow as crime of fourth degree; establishes criminal and civil penalties therefor; designated as Brianna's Law.

NY HB06240

An Act Concerning The Health And Welfare Of Animals Sold At Pet Stores.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.