New York boasts some of the best-trained law enforcement professionals in the country, highly skilled first responders, and dedicated doctors who care for us day and night. Living in a state that puts in such relentless effort to serve its residents is a true privilege. However, there's one area where New York has consistently fallen behind: addressing animal abuse.

Animals, whether wild or domesticated, play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems that have allowed human civilizations to thrive. Animals have become integral to our lives as pets offering companionship and affection, and as workers in law enforcement, physical guiding and emotional support, and agriculture. Because animals are so much a part of our lives, it's easy to take them for granted. Unfortunately, it can also be easy to overlook the suffering they endure behind closed doors.

As an ardent advocate for animal welfare, I've always appreciated animals' vital role in our society. That's why I've introduced a bill this year, A.5405, to establish an animal abuse hotline. This would work much like the existing domestic abuse hotline, providing a single, easily accessible phone number throughout New York State for reporting animal abuse and efficiently connecting concerned individuals with the appropriate state or local agencies responsible for ensuring the proper treatment of our animal friends.

The modest cost of this initiative is more than compensated for by our state being a safe haven for all creatures. As stewards of our Earth, we are responsible for treating all its inhabitants, including animals, with respect. I hope you’ll join me in supporting the animal abuse hotline, A.5405, as an important measure to help ensure the health and safety of the animals who depend on us for compassion and care.