Addabbo is looking out for shelter pets as Governor signs two bills he supports into law

As a way to better protect animals that are held in, or being transported by animal shelters, Governor Kathy Hochul signed State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.’s bill (S.6870) into law.

This legislation will provide comprehensive standards of care for municipal shelters, not-for-profit humane societies, and not-for-profit animal rescues. The NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Division of Animal Industry will oversee implementation, maintenance and compliance with these comprehensive facility standards.

“With the signing of this bill into law, we are looking to strengthen the standards of care at all shelters across the state, while also eliminating unenforceable laws to have a comprehensive set of laws that all shelters will have to adhere to,” Addabbo explained. “The animals in these shelters have already had a difficult life, and they deserve the highest care and conditions as they await to be adopted to their new homes. I want to thank the Hochul administration for signing my bill and for protecting these animals.”

Additionally, earlier this month Governor Hochul also signed a piece of legislation into law that would prohibit retail pet shops from selling dogs, cats and rabbits from what are known as puppy mills, and instead offer these animals up for adoption.

Addabbo supported the bill (S.1130) and was a co-sponsor on the legislation.

“This bill — which is now law — will prevent retail pet shops across New York State from selling cats, dogs and rabbits from puppy mills,” Addabbo said. “Large-scale puppy mills often mistreat the animals they are responsible for and force them to live in deplorable conditions where they face cruelty and abuse. Instead of selling pets, retail shops can charge animal shelters or rescue organizations rent to use their retail space for the adoption of these pets.”

While this legislation will take effect in 2024, Addabbo says that it is vital that they monitor how this law is implemented to ensure it done correctly.

“We want to make sure that no animals are subject to the deplorable conditions of puppy mills that maximize their profits at the expense of the wellbeing of these animals,” Addabbo added. “But we also want to protect local credible pet shops and keep them in business. If these pet shops are doing the right thing and partnering with rescues and not the puppy mills, they have nothing to worry about. We will monitor the situation once the law goes into effect in 2024.”