Sponsor legislation to strengthen NYS law for neglected companion animals

Sponsor legislation to strengthen NYS law for neglected companion animals

The Issue

Please support Grace, a pit bull who was severely neglected and had to be humanely euthanized on October 6, 2012. We will not forget Grace and the emotional and physical pain and suffering she suffered as a result of her owner's neglect.

Currently those charged with abusing or neglecting companion animals are only subject to a misdemeanor charge under NYS Agriculture & Markets Law. We are asking that companion animals be moved out of NYS Agriculture & Markets Law into New York State Penal Law so that those charged with animal abuse or neglect could face a felony charge.

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Cuse Pit Crew (Animal Alliance of Greater Syracuse)Petition Starter
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Confirmed victory
This petition made change with 1,834 supporters!

The Issue

Please support Grace, a pit bull who was severely neglected and had to be humanely euthanized on October 6, 2012. We will not forget Grace and the emotional and physical pain and suffering she suffered as a result of her owner's neglect.

Currently those charged with abusing or neglecting companion animals are only subject to a misdemeanor charge under NYS Agriculture & Markets Law. We are asking that companion animals be moved out of NYS Agriculture & Markets Law into New York State Penal Law so that those charged with animal abuse or neglect could face a felony charge.

avatar of the starter
Cuse Pit Crew (Animal Alliance of Greater Syracuse)Petition Starter
Media inquiries

The Decision Makers

New York State Senator David J. Valesky
New York State Senator David J. Valesky
Responded
“Thank you for contacting me to express your support for a law that would create harsher penalties for animal abusers. I am aware of Grace’s story, and as a dog owner myself, I am sickened. I had the opportunity to meet with members of the Syracuse Pit Crew, and indicated that I would be supportive of changing the law to increase penalties against anyone who neglects or abuses a companion animal. I am pleased to report that legislation has already been introduced (S.6730/A.9917) that would accomplish our common goal— allowing individuals charged with neglect, including failure to provide medical care, to be charged with a felony under the penal law. I have signed on as a co-sponsor of this legislation. I will join you in advocating for passage of this legislation in the upcoming 2013 legislative session which will begin in January. Again, thank you for bringing attention to this important issue, and feel free to contact my office if you have any questions. Sincerely, David J. Valesky State Senator”

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Petition created on October 6, 2012