Not Barking up the Wrong Tree on Animal Welfare

The New York State Senate commemorated Animal Advocacy Day by passing a package of legislation to strengthen protections for the well-being of animals.  Included were Senate Bills S5325 and S6211C, sponsored by State Senator Monica R. Martinez, that give judges the discretion to order consecutive sentences when an individual is convicted of multiple counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and expand the definitions of wild and exotic animals to ensure these creatures will be protected from being imported, sold, or owned.

S5325, also known as “Tucker’s Law,” was originally introduced in 2020 after the arrest of a Long Island man for the beating deaths of two dogs and injury of a third. The legislation was crafted in response to an existing limitation within state law that restricts a charge of aggravated cruelty to a definite sentence not to exceed two years in prison. The bill addresses this limitation by granting judges the discretion to impose consecutive sentences when an individual is convicted of multiple counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. Currently, the law caps sentences at up to two years for even the most egregious acts.

S6211C was filed in response to a Hauppauge pet store found to be selling various exotic animals.  The shop also allegedly allowed visitors to purchase 30-minute sessions to pet, feed, and interact with wild and exotic animals, including sloths and kangaroos.  Under current law, selling or keeping these types of wild animals is not prohibited, however, the shop did close earlier this month.

“Animal Advocacy Day is a reminder that humanity's laws against inhumane behavior towards these creatures have not always kept pace with the depravity of some individuals,” said Senator Martinez.  “The package of bills approved today, including expansions of 'Tucker's Law' and the ban on exotic animal sales, elevates our standard of compassion and accountability towards our fellow beings.  However, as cruelty to animals is often a precursor to future abuse against humans, these proposals not only protect animals but also affirm our commitment to ensuring both are treated with dignity and respect.”

An annual tradition at the New York State Capitol, Animal Advocacy Day began over a decade ago with the aim of raising awareness about protecting animals.  The event offers animal advocates valuable time to exchange information and engage with legislators on pending legislation and other issues of concern.