Relates to the confinement of animals in private facilities

BILL NUMBER:S1446

Title of bill

An act to amend the agriculture and markets law and the general municipal law, in relation to confinement of animals in private facilities

Summary of provisions

Section 1 sets forth the conditions a caretaker must provide when taking care of a large number of animals. If the caretaker does not meet the appropriate conditions they will be considered guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year or by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

An animal that continues to be impounded, confined, or in any other way housed as aforesaid and continues to go without food and water for more than twelve successive hours it shall be lawful for any person, from time to time, and as often as necessary to enter upon the facility where the animals are housed and supply them with food and water. Such person shall not be liable to any action for such entry. Such person may collect the reasonable cost of such food and water from the owner.

These provisions shall apply to any facility that is used to house or contain more than twelve adult animals or nine animals and three or more litters of animals that are owned, operated, or maintained by a nongovernmental entity. This clause shall not include wildlife under the care of wildlife rehabilitators or laboratory animals held in facilities or in facilities accredited by the American zoo and aquarium association or farm animals.

Section 2 amends the general municipal law by adding a new section that any municipal corporation may enforce regulations set forth by the commissioner of agriculture and markets addressing proper food, drink, shelter and care to animals impounded by dog or animal control officer or any peace or police officer.

Justification

Recently, several cases have been reported where persons have taken in a large quantity of animals and have failed to supply the adequate care and necessities of life. As a result of this neglect and abuse, many animals have suffered unnecessary pain, deplorable living conditions and in the worse scenario, even death. This bill would set forth the guidelines in relation to the confinement of a large number of animals in private facilities.

Legislative history

2014- S.3291

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it shall have become a law.