Senator Oppenheimer Honored by the New York State Humane Association

In a presentation at the State Capitol, the New York State Humane Association commended Senator Suzi Oppenheimer (D-Mamaroneck) for her legislative achievements to improve the health and well-being of animals throughout the State.

Senator Oppenheimer has been honored with an award from the New York State Humane Association (NYSHA) for her outstanding leadership in advancing the protection of animals,” said Samantha Mullen, chair of the Legislation Committee of NYSHA.  “In the 2010-11 session she not only introduced several key humane measures but saw them through to enactment.  The resulting laws help ensure essential training for humane law enforcement and animal shelter staff; allow the voluntary transfer of animals from one facility to another when such action enhances the opportunities for responsible adoptions; and require that students and their parents be notified of the students’ rights to choose alternatives to animal dissection in science classes.”

The Senator was honored for championing key legislation that ensures that abandoned, unwanted or abused animals be afforded the best opportunity for loving adoptions, and if necessary as a last resort, humane euthanasia performed by properly trained personnel. 

Her bills, S.4962-B (enacted in 2009) and S.7955-A (2010), recognize the necessity of euthanasia in certain circumstances to spare animals further hardship and suffering.  The bills ensure, however, that animal euthanasia be performed in the most humane manner possible and by veterinarians or technicians who have been property trained and certified in humane procedures.

Another of Senator Oppenheimer’s bills, S.5794-A, enacted in 2010, permits animal care and control organizations to transfer animals to another duly incorporated animal protective facility in order to maximize their opportunities for adoption into loving and responsible homes.

In 2010, the Senator also sponsored S.7820, which obligates local school districts to notify students and their parents of the student’s right to abstain, on moral or religious grounds, from animal dissection and to be afforded an alternative science project.  The legislation was signed into law in August 2010.

“I am enormously grateful for this recognition by the New York State Humane Association,” said Senator Oppenheimer.  “A a lifelong animal lover, I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished to reduce animal suffering and promote responsible pet ownership throughout our State.”