New York, NY- Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan) today announced that her bill to allow pets to board public transportation with their owners during natural disasters in order to evacuate to safety was signed into law.

“Pets are like family, and no one should be expected to leave a beloved family member behind to fend for themselves in a natural disaster,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal. “This law will ensure that all New Yorkers – both two- and four-legged – can escape to safety on public transportation.

Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal introduced legislation after Superstorm Sandy when many families refused to evacuate because they were not able to evacuate to safety with their pets on public transportation. Staying behind endangers the pets, the people, and the first responders who are responsible for rescuing those who are stranded.

“With an increasingly unstable climate, it is vital that we have plans in place to ensure the safety of New Yorkers and their pets,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal.

The bill, which was sponsored by Andrew Lanza in the New York State Senate, will take effect in 30 days and allows companion animals to board all Metropolitan Transportation Authority transportation so long as there is space sufficient to accommodate all people first. The bill will not change any rights already in place for service animals.

Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal, Chair of the Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, represents the 67th Assembly district, which includes the Upper West Side and parts of the Clinton/ Hell’s Kitchen neighborhoods in Manhattan.