February 2, 2011
NYC Victory: Mayor Michael Bloomberg Signs Pet-Friendly Bills Into Law
On Tuesday, February 1, NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg signed two pet-friendly bills into Law. This is the first time companion animal legislation has been passed in New York City in nearly 10 years.
"We are grateful for the enactment of these two very important bills, which will improve the lives of New York City’s two- and four-legged residents,” says Michelle Villagomez, ASPCA Senior Manager of Advocacy. “We look forward to working with the City to address other issues affecting New York's animals."
Intro. 328, which passed 41-7, will increase the city’s annual dog licensing fee for unaltered pet dogs from $11.50 to $34.00. The money raised by this increase will be used to help fight pet overpopulation through spay/neuter services and educational outreach.
The Council also voted 47-1 to pass Intro. 425, which bans tethering an animal for more than three hours in a 12-hour period. The bill also prohibits the use of certain inhumane restraints for tethering, such as heavy steel chains and choke or pinch collars. First-time violators will receive a summons or, if the animal is injured, a fine of up to $250. Repeat offenders face fines of up to $500 and three months in jail.
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