New Yorkers accused of animal cruelty involving a horse might face felony charges if a bill recently introduced into that state’s General Assembly becomes law. Under current New York law, animal cruelty involving horses is a misdemeanor.

The bill, A1566, sponsored by Assemblyman James Tedisco, would amend animal cruelty laws contained in New York’s so-called Buster’s Law to include equines that are pets or companion animals. Buster’s Law, which was passed by New York lawmakers in 1999, amended previous animal cruelty statues to make it a felony to abuse domestic animals such as dogs and cats, said Tedisco’s Chief of Staff Adam Kramer. Under Buster’s Law horses are currently designated as farm animals. A1566 would make it a felony to maltreat a horse used for recreational purposes such as jumping, showing, or for rehabilitation. Under the bill, horses used for those purposes would be considered pets or companion animals, Kramer said.

"The bill does not cover horses that are used in racing, farming, or breeding," Kramer said.

Cathy Cloutier, executive director of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Upstate New York, calls the bill a step in the right direction