In an effort to crack-down on individuals who deliberately abandon their animals, New York State Senator Mike Nozzolio and his colleagues in the State Senate have enacted legislation (S.410) increasing the penalties for this crime.  Under the new measure, those who willfully abandon their animals could see a maximum sentence of one year in jail and/or $2,000, an increase from one year in jail and/or $1,000.   

“The proper care and treatment of animals has always been of great importance to me and I have worked hard to ensure they are not abused or abandoned,” Senator Nozzolio said. “This legislation would increase the penalties for individuals who abandon their pets and will hopefully encourage people to bring their animals to a shelter or other safe location if they are no longer able to care for them.”

Senator Nozzolio is also sponsoring two additional legislative measures to protect animals. Senate Bill 2935 would require each violator of “Buster’s Law” to register his or her name and address with the Division of Criminal Justice Services and Senate Bill 3030 would prohibit a person convicted of violating “Buster’s Law” from owning or possessing a companion animal. Buster's Law, enacted in 1999, elevated animal cruelty in New York State to a felony.

The measure awaits action by the New York State Assembly.