Protect Humane Treatment of Animals

Dear Representative,

As compassionate residents of New York State we respectfully request that you support the Companion Animal Access and Rescue Act (Senate Bill S05363A and Assembly Bill A07312) and oppose the Unlawful Tampering With Farm Animals, also known as the Ag Gag Bill (Senate Bill S05172).

CAARA is a comprehensive measure that goes beyond just giving rescue groups mere access. For the first time, it sets qualifications and guidelines for both shelters and rescue groups. Outlining the responsibilities of those who work directly with the animals will help ensure that the animals receive the proper care. These provisions ensure that animals are given fresh food and water on a daily basis, exercise and socialization with other animals, clean living environments, and prompt veterinary care. Additionally, both paper and digital records are required in order to help facilitate finding these animals a home. To ensure compliance, routine inspections of the facility are mandated.

Furthermore, CAARA extends whistleblower protections to rescue groups. In many cases, rescue groups have been denied access to shelters for speaking out against bad practices, whether it be for abuse or mismanagement. Every time a group is turned away, it adds to the undue burden on the taxpayer who has to foot the bill for every animal kept or killed in a shelter.

In addition to passing CAARA, essential to the assurance for humane treatment of farmed animals, concerned citizens must not be threatened with prison if they expose cruel treatment by means of video camera, photos or audio tape. Often, the only way abhorrent treatment of animals is exposed is through undercover documentation of such treatment. The Ag Gag Bill has made it through the Agricultural Committee, and is being considered on the Senate floor. Please oppose this Bill.

Sincerely,