NYS allowing pets on public transportation in an emergency

Governor Cuomo signs legislation allowing pets on public transportation in a state of an emergency and evacuation.

This legislation expands existing law to include Port Authority Public Transportation and is consistent with current emergency operation plans pertaining to the needs of animals and pet owners.

"For many New Yorkers, their pets are members of their families, and no one should be forced to abandon them in the event of an evacuation," Governor Cuomo said. "I'm proud to sign this commonsense, humane legislation to bring comfort to pet owners in times of distress."

During Superstorm Sandy, many pet owners refused to evacuate when requested because they could not take their companion animals with them to safety. This situation to refuse evacuation not only jeopardized the lives of residents and defenseless pets, but also the emergency personnel struggling to evacuate them.

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