New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S03073

Introduced
1/23/25  
Refer
1/23/25  
Engrossed
6/11/25  
Refer
6/11/25  
Refer
1/7/26  
Engrossed
5/5/26  

Caption

Establishes a civil remedy for the protection of animals denied proper care by creating a special proceeding in the supreme court that will hold owners and caretakers liable if such animals under their care are mistreated.

Impact

If enacted, S03073 will amend the Agriculture and Markets Law in New York, specifically creating a new article that lays out the procedures for ensuring the protection of companion animals. This includes definitions related to the mistreatment of animals, emergency provisions for inspections, and the establishment of animal care hearings that could lead to court orders for the care or forfeiture of animals found to be neglected. The law aims to balance animal welfare with the rights of pet owners, providing a structured and legal framework for intervention.

Summary

Bill S03073, also known as the Civil Remedy for the Protection of Companion Animals, seeks to establish legal provisions that allow courts to intervene in cases where companion animals are mistreated or denied proper care. The bill proposes the creation of a special court process that would enable authorized agents to notify pet owners about their obligation to provide adequate care to their animals, and in severe cases, removes animals from their current custody to ensure their welfare.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on enhancing animal protection, there are notable points of contention regarding the enforcement mechanisms. Critics may express concerns over the rights of pet owners, particularly regarding the potential for the misuse of emergency powers. Provisions that allow the immediate removal of a pet without prior notice to the owner might be viewed as excessive or infringing upon personal property rights. Additionally, the bill outlines financial responsibilities for the costs of care during hearings, which may raise concerns for owners unable to afford such expenses.

Companion Bills

NY A02555

Same As Establishes a civil remedy for the protection of animals denied proper care by creating a special proceeding in the supreme court that will hold owners and caretakers liable if such animals under their care are mistreated.

Previously Filed As

NY A02555

Establishes a civil remedy for the protection of animals denied proper care by creating a special proceeding in the supreme court that will hold owners and caretakers liable if such animals under their care are mistreated.

NY S01784

Relates to the inspection of property that has been vacated for abandoned animals; requires property owners and lessors to inspect such property within three days and to immediately notify the appropriate authorities when such person finds an animal which appears to be abandoned.

NY S08211

Clarifies the standard of care for animals held in or being transported by animal shelters including the length of time and conditions such animal may be exposed to.

NY A08555

Clarifies the standard of care for animals held in or being transported by animal shelters including the length of time and conditions such animal may be exposed to.

NY S08035

Authorizes courts, upon issuance of an order of protection, to order exclusive care, custody, and control of certain companion animals be granted to the petitioner

NY A10857

Authorizes courts, upon issuance of an order of protection, to order exclusive care, custody, and control of certain companion animals be granted to the petitioner

NY HB05264

An Act Concerning Service Animals In Insurance Underwriting, The Appointment Of An Advocate In Proceedings Concerning The Welfare Or Custody Of Companion Animals, Assault Of A Domestic Animal And Establishing An Animal Abuse Task Force.

NY A09024

Establishes criminal offenses related to cruelty to and the killing of animals; provides for enhanced sentencing and victim statements; requires landlords to check the animal abuser registry; establishes the New York state animal abuser registry; makes conforming changes; repeals provisions relating to aggravated cruelty to animals.

NY A10942

Requires the municipal police training council establish a use of force policy for companion animals; defines companion animals.

NY S09569

Provides that companion animals, as sentient beings, shall be considered victims of animal cruelty crimes, including but not limited to all offenses as defined in article twenty-six of the agriculture and markets law, and shall be treated as such in a court of law.

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