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NYC Council Member Proposes Bill to Legalize Bodega Cats

The measure envisions a certification regime alongside a free vaccination program to ensure humane care of these unregulated shop cats.

Overview

  • Council Member Keith Powers will introduce the bill at the next City Council meeting later this month.
  • The proposal would amend the city health code to officially allow cats in food establishments.
  • Bodega owners seeking certification must meet humane standards, including veterinary checkups, spaying or neutering, proper feeding and designated rest areas.
  • A free vaccination program would cover all cats registered under the new certification system.
  • The legislation follows a grassroots petition with over 12,000 signatures and responds to the cats’ role in neighborhood rodent control.