NY S01528

Establishes a public animal cruelty registry maintained by the Division of Criminal Justice Services for persons convicted of violating animal cruelty statutes (sections 351 and 353-a of Agriculture and Markets Law).

Registry information including name and address must be made available in print and electronic form to law enforcement, district attorneys, humane societies, animal control officers, breeders, animal rescues, and pet stores.

Convicted persons must register annually and whenever they move to a new address, and continue registering until a court order allows cessation (which requires psychiatric/psychological testing proving sound mental capacity to own animals).

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

Imposes a mandatory annual $50 surcharge on convicted violators to fund registry establishment and maintenance costs, and applies statewide to all municipalities regardless of local ordinances.