New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01045

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Makes the failure to provide food, water or appropriate shelter to a companion animal (dogs and cats) left outside a felony punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, or imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

Summary

Bill S01045 amends the agriculture and markets law to enhance protections for companion animals, specifically dogs and cats, left outdoors. It establishes that failure to provide adequate food, water, or shelter during inclement weather constitutes a felony, punishable by fines up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to two years. The bill also outlines specific requirements for appropriate shelter based on the animal's breed, physical condition, and local climate, aiming to ensure the welfare of companion animals in outdoor settings.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws regarding animal welfare by elevating the penalties for neglecting companion animals. It modifies existing statutes to include stricter definitions and requirements for shelter and care, thereby increasing legal accountability for pet owners. This change is expected to enhance the enforcement of animal welfare standards and potentially reduce cases of animal neglect in New York.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S01045 appears to be supportive among animal welfare advocates, who argue that it is a necessary step toward improving the treatment of companion animals. However, there may be concerns from some pet owners about the feasibility of meeting the new shelter standards and the potential for punitive measures.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the definitions of 'appropriate shelter' and the penalties associated with violations. Critics may argue that the bill imposes excessive fines and imprisonment for what they perceive as unintentional neglect, while supporters assert that the measures are necessary to protect vulnerable animals from harm. The balance between enforcement and reasonable pet ownership practices is a key area of debate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S00298

Makes the failure to provide food, water or appropriate shelter to a companion animal (dogs and cats) left outside a felony punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, or imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

NY A10676

Provides that failure to provide shelter to animals is an act of cruelty to animals.

NY A07950

Provides that the penalty for the abandonment of animals is a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY A11276

Increases the penalty of knowingly violating the provisions relating to the appropriate shelter for dogs from a violation to a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY S01741

Provides that the penalty for the abandonment of animals is a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY H5128

Makes any offense under this statute that could result in the death of an animal punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine of at least $1,000, or both, for each offense.

NY S01742

Increases the penalty of knowingly violating the provisions relating to the appropriate shelter for dogs from a violation to a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY S07395

Increases the penalty for multiple convictions of torturing, killing or failing to provide sustenance to an animal to a felony, if convicted within five years from the date of a prior conviction.

NY S2397

Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $500 or no more than $2,500 and up to 2 years imprisonment, for violating the law on the care of dogs.

NY H7487

Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $500 or no more than $2,500 and up to 2 years imprisonment, for violating the law on the care of dogs.

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