NY S04279

Repeals outdated animal cruelty provisions from Agriculture and Markets Law (sections 351, 353, 353-a, 353-b, 353-d, 355, 360, 361, 362) and creates comprehensive new animal cruelty offenses in Penal Law Article 280, including promoting animal fighting (class A misdemeanor to D felony), animal cruelty in various degrees (class A misdemeanor to D felony), and animal abduction offenses (class B misdemeanor to D felony).

Defines separate crimes for "torture" (conduct intended to cause extreme physical pain) and "cruelty" (unjustifiable physical pain or suffering), establishing "animal cruelty offense" as any violation of animal protection laws that harms animals intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or negligently.

Authorizes courts to impose special sentences on animal cruelty convictions including forfeiture of animals, prohibition from owning animals for specified periods, and restrictions on redemption of farm animals by convicted persons or accomplices.

Elevates penalties for harming police animals and service animals trained to aid persons with disabilities to D felonies, and classifies animal cruelty in the first degree as a D felony under violent felony offense standards.

Establishes minimum standards for outdoor dog shelter (waterproof roof, insulation, adequate space and cleanliness) and criminalizes confining companion animals in vehicles in extreme temperatures without proper protection, each as violations with escalating fines.