NY S08291

Prohibits the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets from issuing any new licenses for slaughterhouses or butchering establishments where animals or fowls are slaughtered for food.

Requires immediate suspension of all existing licenses held by persons or entities operating slaughterhouses or animal butchering establishments.

Establishes a seven-member task force on public health risks and animal welfare concerns of slaughterhouses, appointed by the governor, legislative leaders, and commissioners of agriculture and health.

Task force members must have expertise in infectious diseases and zoonotic disease transmission; must include at least one animal welfare organization representative and one independent licensed veterinarian.

Task force must complete a thorough examination of licensed facilities and their effects on public health and animal welfare, with a report due to the governor and legislature within one year of the task force's first meeting (which must occur within 30 days of appointment).