NY and HORSEPOWER Lead the Way in Equine Welfare Protections on the National Say of the Horse!

HORSEPOWER

People Organizing for the Well-being of Equines and their Rights

ON NATIONAL DAY OF THE HORSE, GOVERNOR HOCHUL SIGNS HORSEPOWERS' PRIORITY LEGISLATION TO PREVENT EQUINE CRUELTY

Legislation S.2163B/A.5109A Prohibits the Slaughter of Horses for Consumption

Legislation S.1677A/A.3552A Increases Fines for Selling Disabled Equidae

Today, on the National Day of the Horse, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation, which HORSEPOWER worked diligently to pass, that will prevent equine cruelty.  According to her press office, the Governor chose today for the bill signing to recognize the National Day of the Horse, December 13.

The signing was for two separate pieces of legislation: S.2163B/A.5109A prohibits the slaughter of horses for human or animal consumption; and S.1677A/A.3552A increases fines for selling disabled Equidae.

Karin Carreau-Spencer, Founder and Chair of HORSEPOWER, praised the action, "Today, on National Day of the Horse, the nation recognizes the majestic equines who have contributed so much through their work, speed, power and companionship. In New York, we are so grateful that Governor Kathy Hochul has added to the recognition by signing two of HORSEPOWER's legislative priorities, which will prevent inhumane treatment and cements New York State's role as a proven leader in equine welfare. New York is leading the way in equine welfare, and we are forever grateful to the Governor and our sponsors, Senator Joe Addabbo, and Assembly members Gary Pretlow and Deborah Glick for being such strong champions!" 

In a press release from her office, Governor Hochul said, "Nearly 20 years ago, the U.S. Congress declared December 13 to be National Day of the Horse. Here in New York, we are marking this occasion by signing new laws to address animal cruelty and the mistreatment of horses in our state.”

Quotes from the bills' sponsors:

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo said, "Today, as we celebrate National Horse Day, it's an opportunity to reflect on the significant economic, historic, and cultural impact that horses have had on our society. In honor of this special day, I am thankful that Governor Hochul will be signing my two bills aimed at safeguarding these magnificent animals from cruelty. The first bill, S.1677A, enhances the penalties with appropriate fines for the sale of disabled horses at auctions and extends these protections to mules and donkeys. The second bill, S.2163B, prohibits the slaughter of horses for both human and animal consumption. These animals, acknowledged for their contributions towards labor, agriculture, recreation, transportation, and various other purposes, deserve to be treated with the utmost care, and I join Governor Hochul in addressing the need for equine protections and the importance of this cause, which includes the end of horse slaughter and the prevention of animal cruelty."

Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick said, “I’m very gratified that Governor Hochul has signed my bill banning the sale, purchase or transport of horses for the purpose of Slaughter for human consumption. Having worked for 19 years on this legislation to become law, today is a great day for New York State and for the horses who deserve better than the fate so many have faced in the past. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her support of this critical humane legislation.”

Legislation S.1667A/A.3552A updates fines for selling disabled horses at auctions. This legislation also expands the law to protect mules and donkeys. The current fine for selling these animals is only $5 and has not been updated since 1965.

Assemblymember J. Gary Pretlow said, “On National Horse Day, I’d like to thank Governor Hochul for signing our bill to stiffen penalties and increases fines for selling disabled Equidae. Every year, thousands of horse auctions are held in the United States, attracting farmers, ranchers, pleasure-horse owners, riding stable operators and unfortunately - slaughterhouse buyers. The current violation for auctioneers to accept abused or neglected horses has not been updated since 1965 and as such, stands at only a fine of $5. Such a paltry amount does not act as a deterrent to off-loading ill and injured animals. We needed to do better!”

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