BILL NUMBER: S7218A
SPONSOR: HINCHEY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to estab-
lishing the New York state equine industry board
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
This bill creates the New York State Equine Industry Board in the agri-
culture and markets law.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 modifies Agriculture and Markets Law by adding a new section
397 creating the New York State Equine Industry Board to advise and make
recommendations to the commissioner of the Department of Agriculture and
Markets and other state agencies concerning all aspects of equine indus-
try in the state. Section 2 provides an effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Horses play a big role in the economy of New York, with an economic
impact of over $7 billion a year. The state is home to more than 154,000
horses, owned by about 31,000 horse owners. The equine industry is
diverse, with no central organization where different interests can come
together to discuss industry-wide issues. The primary mission of the New
York State Equine Industry Board will be to bring stakeholders together
to advise the state on how to foster the growth and sustainability of
the equine sector. The Board will advise the commissioner on workforce
development and industry promotion, highlight the concerns of horse
owners, horse advocates, veterinarians and other groups, and promote
equine-related tourism and activities. Key objectives could include
supporting educational initiatives, facilitating economic development
within the industry and protecting the welfare of horses throughout the
state. The Board will also work to increase public awareness of the
cultural and economic contributions of the equine sector.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
Minimal.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect ninety days after it shall have become a law.