NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
 
BILL NUMBER: A1679
SPONSOR: Zebrowski (MS)
 
TITLE OF BILL: An act to amend the agriculture and markets law, in
relation to restricting the performance of surgical devocalization
procedures on dogs and cats
 
PURPOSE OF THE BILL: This bill will prohibit the devocalization of
dogs and cats unless there is a medical condition that requires the
procedure.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS: Section one of the bill creates section 365-a
in the agriculture and markets law that prohibits the devocalization of
cats and dogs unless medically necessary.
Section two of the bill relates to forfeiture of animals.
Section three of the bill authorizes the commissioner of agriculture and
markets and the commissioner of education to promulgate rules and regu-
lations to enforce this section.
 
JUSTIFICATION: The devocalization of animals is an invasive procedure
that involves the surgical removal of a dog or cat's vocal cords. This
procedure often leads to serious and long term respiratory and throat
ailments. It silences the dog or cat and prevents communication between
other animals and their owners.
This bill will outlaw "convenience" devocalization and restrict the
invasive surgery for cases where it is medically necessary to treat or
relieve an illness or injury.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY: A.1204 of 2013-2014, A.3431D of 2011-12;
A.11684 of 2009-10.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE: None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE: This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after
it shall become law.