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

Summary of provisions

This bill 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 including "pet," "pet groomer," and "pet grooming facility."

Section 540 defines standards of care, including the safety and well-being of the pet in their care, how outdoor and indoor facilities shall be used, requires that groomers inquire as to the veterinary needs of every pet, requires that every location display a telephone number of the state bureau where a pet owner may make his or her feelings known, states that pets shall not be left unattended and a drying cage shall never be used, and that every person licensed to be a pet groomer shall prove 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 for every pet she takes care of 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, shall establish a training and testing program and testing procedure for applicants interested in a license. 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 a tenth grade education. If the necessary qualifications are met, and the training and examination are completed, the secretary of state shall issue a license 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 license of that person must be displayed 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 be provided training.

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. Moneys collected shall be retained by the local municipality.

Section 546 outlines what current practitioners must do to gain licensure. 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.

Existing law

Currently, there is no license necessary to become a pet groomer in New York.

Justification

Currently, a person may open a pet grooming shop without any formal training, no education, no certification, and with no oversight. This lack of regulation can lead to irresponsible pet groomers harming and even causing the death of unsuspecting people's pets. This bill would ensure a regulated standard by which all pet groomers and pet grooming facilities would operate.

Legislative history

New bill.

Fiscal implications

Unknown.

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.