A5850

An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law — 2026-05-05 · Calendar #379

NYS Legislature ↗ · OpenLeg API ↗

The New York State Senate passed Assembly Bill 5850, an act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law addressing animal welfare protections in traveling circuses, by a vote of 54-8. The bill targets the exploitation and inhumane treatment of wild animals, particularly those confined to cramped cages during circus tours. Sen. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, who explained her affirmative vote, called the legislation a crucial step in preventing animal cruelty and ensuring proper medical care, food, and shelter for wildlife. Eight senators voted in opposition: Borrello, Gallivan, Griffo, Lanza, Ortt, Stec, Walczyk, and Oberacker. The measure takes effect December 31, 2026.

Passed Senate Ayes: 54 · Nays: 8

Debate Summary

The bill addresses animal welfare protections, specifically targeting the exploitation of wild animals in traveling circuses. Sen. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick spoke in support, emphasizing the need to prevent inhumane treatment and ensure proper medical care, food, and shelter for animals that would otherwise spend their lives in cramped cages on the road. She noted that while there are responsible ways to educate the public about animals, the legislation targets bad actors who fail to provide adequate care.

Transcript Mentions

These votes were extracted from the floor transcript by AI. NYS Senate roll calls are read in full, but AI extraction may not capture every senator — so this list is incomplete and skews toward named dissenting votes. Use the Official API Data table above for the complete roll call.

Senator	Vote	Party
Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick	aye	Republican
Borrello	nay	Republican
Gallivan	nay	Republican
Griffo	nay	Republican
Lanza	nay	Republican
Oberacker	nay	Republican
Ortt	nay	Republican
Stec	nay	Republican
Walczyk	nay	Republican