S. 8029 Summary

• Establishes Article 26-C in Agriculture and Markets Law to create comprehensive facility, care, and operational standards for animal shelters, including municipal pounds and non-profit rescue organizations.

• Requires annual licensing of animal shelters by the Department of Agriculture and Markets with a $150 fee, including inspections prior to initial issuance and annually before renewal.

• Mandates specific standards for animal housing, sanitation, veterinary care, vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, behavioral assessment, humane euthanasia protocols, and personnel training within 60 days of employment.

• Prohibits transportation of animals from USDA-licensed breeders and establishes detailed requirements for interstate animal transport, including vehicle conditions, vaccination certificates, health records, and maximum 14-hour transport times.

• Violations are civil offenses subject to penalties of $100-$1,000 per violation, with corrections required within 10 days (or 72 hours for severe threats to animal safety), and grounds for license denial, suspension, or revocation.

• Takes effect three years after enactment, allowing time for regulatory development and shelter compliance.