The New York Metropolis Council is forming the Animal Welfare Caucus.
Photograph through Getty Pictures
A brand new caucus by the Metropolis Council is advocating to make New York Metropolis extra pleasant for animals and those that look after them.
Spearheaded by Council Member Harvey Epstein and Metropolis Council Speaker Julie Menin, the Animal Welfare Caucus is devoted to advocacy for the humane remedy of animals within the metropolis whereas additionally advancing extra laws to make pet possession extra reasonably priced for animal-loving New Yorkers.
The caucus is being shaped due to Speaker Menin giving the problems a proper platform inside the Metropolis Council.
“As a long-time dog dad to my rescue dog Homer, it is an honor to chair the Animal Welfare Caucus in the City Council. The Caucus will be a vehicle for Council Members to create a shared agenda for the humane treatment of animals,” mentioned Council Member Epstein. “Through smart, modern policies, we will reduce harm, protect ecosystems, and foster a healthier, more sustainable city for all. I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to deliver results for all of our family members and friends, whether on two legs or four. I am grateful to Speaker Menin for this historic opportunity to improve animal welfare across our city.”
“Animals are an essential part of the fabric of New York City, and the people who care for them deserve meaningful support,” mentioned Speaker Menin. “The creation of the Animal Welfare Caucus ensures that responsible ownership and pet care affordability have a clear and consistent voice within the Council. At a time when veterinary costs and pet care expenses are rising, we must advance policies that protect animals while also supporting the families who love them. I’m proud to partner with Council Member Epstein and advocates across the city to build a more compassionate, animal-friendly New York.”
Council Member Harvey Epstein and his canine, Homer.Photograph courtesy of Metropolis Council Member Harvey Epstein’s workplace
Pets have a profound impression on their human counterparts in New York Metropolis and past. Nevertheless, it has turn into more and more unaffordable to personal a pet. In accordance with a research from Gallup, 52% of U.S. Pet Homeowners skipped or declined veterinary care resulting from value.
With the formation of the Animal Welfare Caucus, the Metropolis Council is recognizing the interconnectedness between New Yorkers’ well-being and that of our animal companions whereas making town a happier and more healthy place to stay.
“The launch of the Animal Welfare Caucus is a historic milestone for animals in New York City,” mentioned Allie Taylor, President, Voters For Animal Rights (VFAR). “For years, advocates and constituents have called for sustained leadership on animal protection within the Council, and this caucus creates the structure to make that work lasting and impactful. We thank Council Member Harvey Epstein for leading this effort and Speaker Julie Menin for helping make it a reality. Voters For Animal Rights looks forward to working with caucus members to advance thoughtful, effective legislation that reflects the values of New Yorkers.”
“Pets are family, and the New Yorkers who care for them deserve thoughtful, compassionate leadership,” mentioned Michelle Villagomez, Senior Director of Municipal Affairs for the ASPCA. “The ASPCA supports the creation of an Animal Welfare Caucus, and through our ongoing work to provide critical services, care and resources to animals in need across all five boroughs, we look forward to partnering with the Council to strengthen protections for animals and the communities they enrich.”
“The newly formed Animal Welfare Caucus will be a strong, unifying voice in the City Council for advancing animal protection and welfare measures,” mentioned Brian Shapiro, New York State Director of Humane World for Animals (previously known as the Humane Society of america). “Councilmember Harvey Epstein has long championed initiatives that make our communities safer and more humane for both people and animals. By partnering with experts, the caucus will work to build a broad and effective coalition in support of humane policies for New York City.”
