A10119

Establishes an animal abuser registry and requires background checks for pet store and animal shelter licenses.

The bill establishes an animal abuser registry maintained by the New York state division of criminal justice services. It requires individuals convicted of animal abuse felonies or misdemeanors to register with the state. The registry information is made publicly available. The bill also mandates that pet stores and animal shelters conduct background checks against the registry when applying for or renewing licenses. Failure to comply with the registration requirements is a class E felony.