There’s no cat like a New York City cat.
Loved and embraced by New Yorkers — and out-of-towners alike — these feline companions could soon be allowed to keep watch in bodegas and other stores under the law.
On Wednesday, Councilmember Frank Morano introduced the “Bodega Cat Bill” which would get rid of the current city ban on cats in retail food establishments.
Under current rules, the New York City health code, doesn’t allow live animals in retail food establishments.
Morano’s proposed legislation would remove that ban at the city level. Although state regulations would still need to be addressed before store owners have full authorization to keep cats.
The proposed legislation would also create voluntary programs to offer free vaccination and spay/neuter services for cats living in these locations.
In Albany, there is a proposal to establish an official statewide standard of care for cats living in these stores.