Senate Passes Legislation to Establish Animal Fighting Hotline

In honor of the first-ever Animal Advocacy Day, proclaimed by Governor Andrew Cuomo, Senator John A. DeFrancisco (R-I-C, Syracuse) today announced that his bill (S3317), which would establish a toll-free statewide hotline for use in the investigation and prevention of animal fighting, passed the New York State Senate.

“Animal fighting is a barbaric practice that cannot be condoned by any civilized society,” said Senator DeFrancisco. “This legislation would provide a resource for individuals to anonymously report instances of animal fighting.”

The toll-free hotline would be operated by the Division of Criminal Justice Services and tips would be shared with law enforcement officials and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

If enacted into law, this legislation would make it easier for authorities to receive information on this illegal activity and greatly enhance New York State’s efforts to eliminate animal fighting. 

Additional bills passed by the Senate today that would protect animals include:

·   S3237, which would provide for an increase in criminal penalties for animal fighting; and

·   S946, which would include the theft of a domestic pet within the provisions of Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree.

 The bills have been sent to the Assembly and are awaiting approval by that body.