NY S00605

Requires persons convicted of violating animal cruelty laws (sections 351 and 353-a of Agriculture and Markets Law) to register with the Division of Criminal Justice Services, providing name and address at minimum.

Establishes a public animal cruelty registry maintained in print and electronic form, accessible to law enforcement, district attorneys, humane societies, animal control officers, breeders, animal rescues, and pet stores.

Mandates annual registration and re-registration upon change of address, continuing until a court orders cessation based on psychiatric or psychological testing demonstrating clear and convincing evidence of the person's mental capacity to properly care for animals.

Prohibits registered persons from owning companion animals or working at animal shelters, pounds, pet stores, zoos, or other establishments where companion animals are present.

Imposes a mandatory $50 annual surcharge on convicted violators to fund registry establishment and maintenance, applicable statewide and superseding all local laws or ordinances regarding animal abuser registries.