Imposes a fee for certain convictions to benefit animal shelters; establishes the animal offenses assistance fund.

This bill amends the penal law to impose a fee for certain convictions, including felonies, misdemeanors, and violations, to benefit animal shelters. The fee is added to existing mandatory surcharges and fees. The bill also establishes the animal offenses assistance fund, which will receive the new fees and other moneys. The fund will be used to support animal shelters in caring for animals seized or surrendered due to animal abuse or neglect. The commissioner of agriculture and markets will award funds to shelters based on demonstrated needs.

Imposes a fee for certain convictions to benefit animal shelters; establishes the animal offenses assistance fund.

This bill amends the penal law to impose a fee for certain convictions, including felonies, misdemeanors, and violations, to benefit animal shelters. The fee is added to existing mandatory surcharges and fees. The bill also establishes the animal offenses assistance fund, which will receive the new fees and other moneys. The fund will be used to support animal shelters in caring for animals seized or surrendered due to animal abuse or neglect. The commissioner of agriculture and markets will award funds to shelters based on demonstrated needs.