BILL NUMBER: S8973

SPONSOR: HINCHEY
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to author-
izing the return of a dog to its owner or custodian

 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

Section 1 amends the agriculture and markets law to add a new subdivi-
sion 1-a allows a dog that is not dangerous to be returned to the owner
provided on the license.

Section 2 sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Currently, Dog Control Officers and Peace Officers, including Animal
Control Officers, must bring a stray dog to its local animal shelter-
either one run by the municipality or one that the municipality
contracts with for animal sheltering services.
              

This bill would give DCOs and Peace. Officers the option of returning.a
stray dog to its owner if the dog is licensed in the local municipality.
This is a permissive bill and does not mandate this action.

Best practice around the country shows that identifying a lost animal in
the field and returning it to its owner saves taxpayer dollars when a
local municipality contracts with a local nonprofit shelter, relieves
shelter overcrowding and benefits the dog who does not have to go into a
stressful, loud shelter setting.

In addition, the current emphasis on enforcement and punishment in
animal control policy has disproportionately negative impacts on low-in-
come communities through the US, particularly people of color.

Only those dogs with a valid license may be returned to their owners
under this bill. Unlicensed animals, regardless if the DCO or, ReAce,
Officer knows the owner, would be brought to the shelter.

 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

New bill.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.