BILL NUMBER: S2296
SPONSOR: BAILEY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the judiciary law, in relation to the creation of a
court appointed advocate for animals
 
PURPOSE:
To allow judges to appoint special advocates in cases involving the
welfare of an animal.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
The bill amends the judiciary law by adding a new article effectuating
this legislative provision, which includes appointment and duties of the
advocate.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Crimes committed against animals often go unprosecuted or result in
lenient punishments. We also know that those who abuse animals will
often go on to harm humans. In fact, the Federal Bureau of Investigation
began tracking cases of animal abuse in 2017 in the National Incident-
Based Reporting System (NIBRS) because of the demonstrated link between
animal abuse and human violence. Animals do not have a voice within the
courtroom and not all lawyers are experienced in animal welfare. This
bill allows New York State judges to appoint special advocates to repre-
sent the interests of animals in cases involving animal welfare, much
like the courts do for children and other vulnerable crime victims. The
advocates will monitor the case (review pertinent information and docu-
ments from veterinarians, animal control, and police officers) and
attend hearings, among other duties. Ultimately, these advocates will
provide a voice for abused and neglected animals within the courtroom
and work to ensure their best interests are served.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2019-20: Referred to Judiciary
2021-22: Referred to Judiciary
2023-24: Referred to Judiciary
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately.