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 of article 29-CCC defines the terms to be used in the article: "pet", "licensed pet groomer", "pet groomer" and "pet grooming facility."

Section 540 of article 29-CCC defines the standards of care for pets in the care of licensed pet groomers and those who work under their direct supervision.

Section 541 of article 29-CCC outlines record keeping. Every pet groomer must keep and maintain records of every pet he or she grooms for a period of one year from date of service.

Section 542 of article 29-CCC outlines licenses. The secretary of state, in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, shall establish a training program and testing procedures for pet grooming applicants. The secretary of state shall create and maintain a roster of licensees. The secretary of state shall issue a license to qualified persons upon the payment of a forty dollar annual registration fee. A licensed groomer must be on the premises at all times and 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 of article 29-CCO 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, the secretary of state shall notify in writing the licensed pet groomer. Any action of the secretary of state shall be subject to judicial review.

Section 544 of article 29-CCC 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 of article 29-CCC 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 $500 for each violation. Monies collected shall be retained by the local municipality.

Section 546 of article 29-CCC 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, pet groomers are not required to hold a license to practice their profession. This has led to unregulated care and unfortunate outcomes for pets and their owners: in 2012, two healthy dogs were accidentally strangulated while in a mobile grooming facility. 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, which includes mobile groomers.

Prior legislative history

This is a new bill.

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.