Legal Protections for Bodega Cats in New York
New York City’s beloved bodega cats are on the brink of gaining legal protections under state law.
There’s currently a bill being considered by a committee in the New York state legislature aimed at allowing cats to legally reside in retail stores. This legislation would ensure that these hard-working felines receive proper housing, nutritious food, and medical care.
Dan Rimada, the founder of the New York State Bodega Cats, noted, “Bodega Cats have been doing this for decades. Albany is finally catching up.”
At present, housing cats in retail environments is prohibited by both city and state health codes, which leaves them vulnerable to abuse and neglect due to the lack of regulation.
If passed, the bill would require the state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets to create health and safety standards for these cats.
These standards would stipulate regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations, as well as ensuring proper feeding and cleanliness. Additionally, each store would need to provide a comfortable “cat zone” for relaxation.
Democratic Assembly candidate Keith Powers mentioned before introducing a city version of the bill last November, “When you think of New York City, there are many things that come to mind, but bodegas and their cats are one of the iconic parts of our city.” He added, “Bodega cats embody the spirit of New York: friendly, welcoming, and rat-free.”
The proposed state bill would lift the current city ban on keeping cats.
Introduced by state Rep. Linda Rosenthal in May, the bill was submitted to the Legislature’s Agriculture Committee on January 7. It was inspired by a grassroots online petition aimed at providing bodega owners with medical resources and support programs for their feline helpers.
