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Jenifer Rajkumar introduces bill to hold dog owners accountable
The legislation, titled “Penny’s Law,” is named after Penny, a Chihuahua mix who was severely injured by two off-leash pit bulls on May 3.
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Malvika Choudhary - Mon, 12, May 2025
- 16:22 EDT
- 134
Jenifer Rajkumar/ A Chihuahua dog / File Photo/ Wikipedia
New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar has introduced a new bill aimed at holding negligent dog owners criminally responsible when their pets harm other animals.
The legislation, titled “Penny’s Law,” is named after Penny, a 10-year-old Chihuahua mix who was severely injured by two off-leash pit bulls on May 3.
Also Read: Jenifer Rajkumar introduces bill to reform NY’s mental health care
The attack occurred at West 85th Street and Columbus Avenue, where Penny sustained extensive bruising and puncture wounds. Bystanders intervened to stop the assault, but the pit bulls’ owners allegedly fled the scene without rendering aid or providing information. Surveillance footage reportedly captured one of the owners assaulting a bystander during the incident.
The same pit bulls involved in Penny’s mauling are suspected of killing another dog and injuring a second in Central Park earlier this year. Despite multiple incidents, no significant legal action has been taken against their owners.
This Friday 10am! Join me, Lauren Claus, and dog lovers from all walks of life at City Hall to demand passage of Penny's Law! We will come together to say that now is the time to update our laws and show our furry family the love and care they deserve. #justiceforpenny ️ pic.twitter.com/kDniclwZKV
— Jenifer Rajkumar (@JeniferRajkumar) May 12, 2025
Rajkumar’s bill seeks to address legal loopholes that currently prevent authorities from prosecuting dog owners unless a human is injured. Under existing New York law, pets are classified as property, limiting legal recourse in cases of animal-on-animal violence.
“That ends with Penny’s Law, my new bill to hold reckless dog owners accountable. No more tragedies like Penny’s,” Rajkumar said announcing the legislation on X. “Penny’s Law” proposes the creation of new criminal offenses, including “cruelty to animals through negligent handling of a dog” and “leaving the scene of an animal attack.”
Advocates say “Penny’s Law” is essential for public safety and justice. With over 1,300 complaints filed to 311 about off-leash dogs in New York City so far this year, the bill also seeks to impose stronger penalties for repeat violations of leash laws.
A rally in support of the bill is scheduled for May 16 at 10 a.m. at City Hall, where Assemblymember Rajkumar, Penny’s owner Lauren Claus, and fellow advocates will call for urgent passage of the legislation. The event aims to draw attention to the need for stronger protections for companion animals under state law.
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