Suffolk Reporter

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at bolstering support for animal shelters across the state. The proposed bill, identified as S.6733, seeks to establish the Animal Offense Assistance Fund which will be funded by a five-dollar surcharge on court fees. This fund is intended to provide a steady income stream for shelters tasked with caring for surrendered animals.

"Animal shelters across the state provide care, treatment, and lodgings for abused and neglected animals for months, and even years, and should not have to foot the bill for the deplorable actions of others," stated Senator Anthony Palumbo. "The Animal Offense Assistance Fund will provide a consistent funding stream, similar to the Crime Victims Fund, to keep our shelters solvent so they can provide the necessary care, treatment, and services desperately needed for abused animals."

Senator Palumbo highlighted the financial burden faced by shelters when animals rescued through the criminal justice system require extensive veterinary care. Additionally, shelters may need to maintain animals as evidence for extended periods, which prevents their adoption pending the resolution of legal proceedings.

In Albany County, a recent case involved 102 animals housed in inadequate conditions, which were rescued in a joint effort by Humane Law Enforcement from the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and the Town of Colonie Animal Control. Mohawk Hudson took in 98 of these animals and faced substantial costs, exceeding $300,000 for the initial 30 days of care. Despite seeking assistance from the court and incurring significant legal expenses, they only received a $10,000 bond.

A survey by the New York State Animal Protection Federation of 47 similar cases revealed care costs amounting to $4,426,250, with shelters receiving only $795,337 in restitution, accounting for just 18% of the total expenses shared.

"This fund is necessary for the long-term health and sustainability of our animal shelters that provide countless families with their ‘furever’ friends," said Senator Anthony Palumbo. "New York’s shelters need our support and assistance to ensure that they can continue to their critical mission of protecting and caring for our animals and pets."