NY A11049

Requires animal shelters to notify rescue organizations at least two business days before euthanizing any animal and allow rescue organizations to take possession of the animal within 48 hours if they request it.

Defines "rescue organization" as tax-exempt organizations (such as animal rescue, adoption, or animal cruelty prevention organizations) that have existed for at least one year and have no officers, board members, staff, or volunteers convicted of animal-related crimes.

Creates exceptions to the notification and release requirement for animals with irremediable suffering, dogs ordered euthanized by court as dangerous, dogs with documented histories of unprovoked biting causing serious physical injury, dogs with histories of unprovoked repeated biting, and animals suspected of carrying rabies.

Requires rescue organizations assuming possession of an animal to maintain liability insurance and assume all liability for the animal, except for harm occurring before possession or caused by persons not associated with the organization.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.