Prohibits the importing, possession, or sale of any part or product of the skin or body of a kangaroo for commercial purposes.
This bill would add a new section to the Agriculture and Markets Law making it unlawful, for commercial purposes, to knowingly import, possess with intent to sell, sell, or attempt to import, possess, or sell any part or product of a kangaroo’s skin or body. It also prohibits directing another person to engage in those activities. The bill defines the covered materials broadly to include items such as viscera, skin, hide, meat, and bones, and it identifies several kangaroo species and the common wallaroo as covered animals.
The measure establishes civil penalties of up to $1,000 for a first violation and up to $5,000 for subsequent violations. It takes effect 120 days after becoming law and is framed as an addition to, rather than a replacement for, existing animal welfare laws. The bill also preserves local authority to adopt and enforce animal welfare rules and allows otherwise lawful disposition of a deceased kangaroo or its parts.
If enacted, the bill would create a new statewide prohibition on the commercial trade in kangaroo parts and products, affecting importers, retailers, distributors, and any other persons involved in the sale or transfer of such items in New York. It would amend the Agriculture and Markets Law by adding a new section 387 and would authorize civil enforcement penalties for violations. The bill does not appear to create criminal penalties, but it would expand the state’s animal welfare regulatory framework and could preempt or discourage commercial markets for kangaroo-derived goods within the state.
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes in the provided materials, the overall sentiment appears to be supportive and animal-welfare oriented. The sponsors’ framing suggests the bill is intended to restrict commerce in products derived from kangaroos rather than regulate general possession or lawful handling of deceased animals. No opposing arguments, amendments, or recorded roll-call concerns are included in the available context.
The main potential point of contention is the scope of the commercial ban, which reaches importing, possession with intent to sell, and direct or indirect attempts to sell kangaroo parts and products. Businesses that sell leather goods, meat, or specialty products could be affected, and questions may arise about enforcement, definitions of “commercial purposes,” and whether the prohibition is broader than necessary. Another possible issue is the bill’s interaction with existing animal welfare laws and local regulations, though the text expressly states it is supplemental and does not limit local authority.