The state Legislature is considering three animal-related bills as part of the state budget due on April 1.

The New York State Animal Protection Federation (NYSAPF) is asking the governor and the Legislature to create a $2.5 million New York State Animal Crimes Fund to help shelters pay for the costs associated with taking in abused animals.

A recent case in Albany County saw 102 animals living in squalor at a home that doubled as an unregistered rescue. Data supplied by the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society showed it cost the shelter $303,957.25 for the first 30 days of care for those animals, including veterinary care. 

The request could end up in one of the one-house budget bills.

A second bill, A.1816/S.3158, would add animal fighting to the state Enterprise Corruption Statute and provide sentencing enhancement for animal fighting offenses.

A third bill, S.3073/A.2555, would introduce a new legal process to animal forfeiture that doesn’t require charging offenders with a criminal offense.

According to Libby Post, executive director of NYSAPF, there are people who have mental or physical challenges who have, in the past, been criminally charged with crimes against animals. Because criminal charges against these people aren’t the best option, this bill would offer a civil remedy.

The District Attorneys Association of the State of New York (DAASNY) supports all three of the bills.

Post discussed the bills with Capital Tonight host Susan Arbetter.