New York Senate Bill S04613

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/25
• Refer: 2/10/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Relates to orders of protection with respect to companion animals; provides further protection for pets by authorizing the court to order a party to either relinquish a pet or to refrain from any contact with a pet.

Summary

Bill S04613 amends the Family Court Act, Criminal Procedure Law, and Domestic Relations Law to enhance the protection of companion animals in the context of orders of protection. The bill allows courts to issue orders that prevent a respondent from harming or killing a companion animal owned by the petitioner or a minor child in their household. Additionally, it grants the petitioner exclusive care, custody, or control of the animal, thereby ensuring that the respondent cannot interfere with the pet's well-being or ownership.

Impact

The bill's passage will modify existing laws to explicitly include companion animals under the protection of orders issued in domestic violence cases. This change will affect how courts handle cases involving domestic violence, providing a legal framework to protect pets from potential harm by abusive partners. It will also establish clearer guidelines for custody of animals in such situations, impacting family law proceedings and the welfare of pets in domestic disputes.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S04613 appears to be supportive, as it aims to provide additional protections for vulnerable animals in domestic situations. Discussions indicate a recognition of the emotional and psychological importance of pets to their owners, particularly in abusive situations. However, there may be concerns regarding the enforcement of such orders and the potential for misuse in custody disputes.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the enforcement of these orders and the potential for false claims regarding animal harm. Some stakeholders may worry about the implications for individuals who may be falsely accused of animal abuse as a tactic in domestic disputes. Additionally, there could be discussions about the resources needed for enforcement and the potential burden on the court system.