Relates to the inspection of certain vacated or abandoned properties for abandoned companion animals
What changed between versions
The bill was re-titled and moved from the Agriculture and Markets Law to the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law to align with the subject matter of property abandonment.
The definition of affected properties was expanded to include properties that are 'abandoned' in addition to those vacated by eviction, foreclosure, or default.
New requirements were added for 'plaintiffs' (parties in legal eviction proceedings) and government departments to inspect properties for abandoned companion animals.
A new provision requires landlords to provide at least seven days' notice to tenants before entering a vacated property for inspection, unless emergency repairs are needed.
The term 'companion animals' was introduced and used consistently throughout the bill to replace the broader term 'animals'.
The Attorney General was granted specific authority to enforce the civil penalties associated with failing to inspect for abandoned animals.
