Provides for the licensing and regulation of pet groomers; establishes standards of care, training and testing

Summary of specific provisions

Section one amends the general business law by adding a new article 29-CCC which provides for the licensing and regulation of pet groomers. Section 539 defines the terms to be used in the article: "pet"; "pet groomer"; and "pet grooming facility." Section 540 defines standards of care for pets in the care of pet groomers. This section provides that enclosures for pets shall be structurally sound, clean, in good repair and large enough to allow each pet to make normal postural adjustments. Proper temperature, lighting and sanitary condi- tions are to be maintained. Groomers shall inquire as to the veterinary needs of every pet, and shall provide adequate water. Every location shall display a telephone number of the state bureau where a pet owner may report alleged violations. Pets shall not be left unattended and a drying cage shall never be used. Every person licensed to be a pet groomer shall provide proof that he or she is insured to cover liability for negligent acts. Section 541 outlines record keeping. Every pet groomer must keep and maintain records of every pet he or she grooms for a period of two years from date of service. Section 542 outlines licenses. The secretary of state shall establish: a bureau or office for the licensing of individuals as pet groomers; a training program; and testing procedures for pet grooming applicants. The bureau or office shall create and maintain a roster of licensees. No individual shall be permitted to take a licensing exam unless she is at least sixteen years of age, of good moral character, and has completed at least tenth grade. The secretary of state shall issue a license to qualified persons upon the payment of a twenty dollar biennial registration fee. A licensed groomer may employ individuals, under his or her direct supervision, who are in training for the pet groomer's examination. The licensed groomer shall display his or her license in a conspicuous place. Section 543 outlines license refusal, suspension or revocation. The secretary of state may decline to grant or renew, or may suspend or revoke a pet groomer's license for material misstatement, improper record keeping, or for a violation of any provision of law relating to the humane treatment of animals. Prior to suspension or revocation of a license, a hearing shall be held. Any action of the secretary of state shall be subject to judicial review. Section 544 outlines inspections. The secretary of state or his or her authorized agents shall make yearly inspections of pet grooming facilities. Those making inspections shall receive training in the provisions of this article and in the proper care of pets. Section 545 outlines violations. In addition to denial, revocation, suspension, or refusal of renewal of a license, any violation of a provision of this article is a civil offense, which may carry a penalty of not less than $100 and no more than $1000 for each violation. Monies collected shall be retained by the local municipality. Section 546

provides that individuals engaged in pet grooming on the effective date of this article must make application for a license as provided in this article within one year.

Section two provides the effective date.

Justification

Currently, those who groom pets are not required to hold a license, and there is no procedure in place to obtain a license in New York State. This has led to unregulated care and unfortunate outcomes for pets and their owners. Specifically, there have been a few instances where pets have died in drying cages. This bill is intended to protect pets that have been brought to a groomer by requiring groomers to meet certain qualifications and obtain a license. The bill also specifies sanitary, health and safety standards that must be met by pet groomers and pet grooming facilities.

Prior legislative history

This is a new bill.

Fiscal implication

Unknown at present.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall have become a law; provided, however, that effective immediately the addition, amendment or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date are authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.