BILL NUMBER: S4993C
SPONSOR: MARTINEZ
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the parks, recreation and historic preservation law, in
relation to allowing the presence of dogs in state parks
 
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this legislation is to permit the presence of dogs in all
state parks with the exception of the Adirondack park and Catskill park.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1. The parks, recreation and historic preservation law is
amended by adding a new section 3.27 that authorizes the admittance of
dogs into state parks and grants the parks commissioner authority to
adopt any rules, regulations and programs for dog access provided such
rules and programs do not conflict with the provisions of this bill.
This section further provides clarity on when and where dogs are permit-
ted in state parks, the responsibilities and liabilities of the owner or
custodian of the dog, and the requirement of state parks to provide dog
care stations.
Section 2. Is the enacting clause
 
JUSTIFICATION:
New York State Parks are sacred areas of land where residents and visi-
tors can commune, exercise, and appreciate the beautiful landscapes
available to us. While many people would love to share this experience
with their dog(s), some parks do not currently permit them. Park visi-
tors should have the option to bring their dog/s with them to enjoy open
green space, trails and the solace of nature state parks provide. This
bill affords state parks with the flexibility to restrict certain areas
from being accessible to dogs, which may include protected bird nesting
sites. This measure encourages co-existence between park visitors, dogs,
wildlife and the environment.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred twentieth day after it
shall have become a law.