Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,I-Lockport) joined with members of the state Legislature to take some time to advocate for the greater protection of animals today at the annual legislative Animal Advocacy Day in Albany. Norris, who is the proud owner of a cockapoo named Reagan, is a sponsor of legislation known as “Kirby and Quigley’s Law" to create the crime of harming a companion animal in the commission of another crime.

“No one should know the horror to coming home to find a burglary has taken place, but what makes Kirby and Quigley’s story even more heartbreaking was the fact that these innocent pets were killed by the robbers who broke into, vandalized and stole from this home,” said Norris. “Yes, it is paramount that we do everything we can to protect New Yorkers, but anyone who has a pet understands our laws should safeguard animals as well.”

Kirby and Quigley’s Law was named after two dogs that were shot by a burglar in Montgomery County. The measure would enhance existing animal cruelty felony laws and be punishable by two years in jail and a $5,000 fine. The bill was passed in the state Senate earlier this year and is now before the Assembly Codes Committee.