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Cuomo Signs 'Dining With Dogs' Bill Into Law

Updated Wednesday, Oct. 28 8:31 a.m.

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) - A new law in New York state will allow dogs to join their human companions on restaurant patios.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the so-called "dining with dogs" bill into law late Monday night. States including California, Florida and Maryland already have similar laws.

Dog lovers and many restaurant owners in New York support the idea, noting that the animals would have to be leashed and that restaurants could choose not to allow canines.

"Restaurant owners can now cash in on all the doting dog owners throughout our state who had previously stayed home just to be with their pup," said Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal.

"This law is a crowd pleaser for entrepreneurs and the pet loving community, congratulations New York!" said Judie Mancuso, president of Social Compassion in Legislation.

"As long as they're behaving, I'll eat out with the dogs," a dog owner told WCBS 880's Paul Murnane.

Supporters noted the rules have long been ignored and that any ban could only encourage more dogs being left in locked cars.

Legislation intended to help New York's felines didn't fare so well. Cuomo vetoed a proposal to fund organizations that trap, neuter and release feral cats.

In his veto, the governor noted that it's illegal to release wild cats and that feral felines are a threat to local wildlife such as birds.

 

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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