Res. No. 1689 Title Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature to amend the General Business Law regarding the regulation by the City of New York of spay/neutering requirements of pet shops. Body By The Speaker (Council Member Vallone) and Council Members Robles, Freed and Warden; also Council Members Leffler, Marshall, Nelson, Robinson and Sabini Whereas, On May 12, 2000, the "New York City Animal Shelters and Sterilization Act" was signed into law and is codified in the New York City Administrative Code Sections 17-801 - 17-808; and Whereas, Despite overwhelming support and need for the law in addressing the City's serious overpopulation of unwanted dogs and cats, representatives in the pet shop industry opposed the enactment of the law; and Whereas, Shortly after the "New York City Animal Shelters and Sterilization Act" was signed into law by the Mayor, the New York State Legislature adopted legislation that amended the General Business Law; and Whereas, The amendments to the General Business Law remove regulation by the City towards pet shops, particularly in the area of spay/neutering requirements, thereby superseding the City's authority to enforce the provisions relating to pet shops in the "New York City Animal Shelters and Sterilization Act;" and Whereas, On August 16, 2000, Governor Pataki signed the legislation and it is scheduled to take effect on February 12, 2001; and Whereas, As a result of this action by the State, the provisions of the "New York City Animal Shelters and Sterilization Act" regarding its application to pet shops will be preempted by State law; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature to amend the General Business Law, thereby allowing the City of New York to enforce the spay/neutering requirements of the "New York City Animal Shelters and Sterilization Act" towards pet shops. LS #3732