Addabbo Bill Protecting Dogs Passes Senate
State Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Glendale, Middle Village, Maspeth) recently joined with his senate colleagues in approving legislation he co-sponsors (S.1509) that would increase fines for owners who willfully fail to provide appropriate outdoor shelter for their canine companions.
Addabbo noted that New York State law requires dog owners to provide shelter to their pets, when they are left outside, that is appropriate to their physical condition, breed and the climate. It is the responsibility of local police or animal control officers to investigate and assess compliance with the sheltering requirements.
“Despite the threat of fines, there have been many instances throughout New York State where dogs have been knowingly left outside without adequate shelter in freezing temperatures and have suffered severe pain and injuries,” said Addabbo. “If we hit irresponsible owners a little harder in the wallet, maybe they will be more inclined to take better care of their companion animals when they are left outside to brave the elements.”
Under the bill, fines for knowingly failing to provide adequate shelter would rise from $50-$100 to $250 for a first offense. A second offense, now carrying fines of $100-$250, would rise to $500, and a third violation would bring a charge of $1000.
“The bottom line is that we need to take the health and welfare of our dogs and other companion animals very seriously, and give them the care they deserve as members of our families,” said Addabbo. “This legislation will help to make sure that dogs left outside are protected from preventable harm.”
The Assembly companion bill is now under consideration by the Committee on Agriculture.
Crowley Calls Trump’s Infrastructure Proposal Underfunded
U.S. Rep. and House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-Sunnyside, Astoria, College Point, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Corona, Woodside, The Bronx) yesterday said more federal spending was needed the the $200 billion over 10 years that President Trump recently called for in his $4.4 trillion released yesterday.
“President Trump’s infrastructure proposal falls far short of the investment our country desperately needs and deserves. At a time when our bridges and roads are crumbling and our schools and hospitals are severely antiquated, the president’s empty proposal lacks vision. It will force states into debt while robbing critical funds from vital transportation programs that keep America moving forward,” said Crowley.
“America needs a 21st Century Marshall Plan that will give hard-working men and women career-building jobs and ensure that our country is modern and efficient. Democrats offered this bold alternative last week, and I’m proud to stand behind a plan that will actually help rebuild America and put Americans back to work for decades to come.”
Peralta Partners With City Hospital To Provide Free Flu Shots
State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-Corona, East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Woodside) today will partner with the NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst and LeFrak City Maintenance Services to provide free flu shots.
The initiative is In response to the deadly flu season, an outbreak that killed four children in New York City, including an 8-year-old girl in LeFrak City. Peralta, Elmhust Hospital and LeFrak City Maintenance Services will urge New Yorkers to get the flu vaccine to protect themselves.
The free flu shots are available for LeFrak City residents only and will be available starting at 5 p.m., today Feb. 13 at the LeFrak City Building Complex. Continental Room Rome Building. 96-10 57th Avenue in Corona.
