New York City bodega cats, long a familiar sight in corner stores across all five boroughs, may soon be officially recognized under city law. City Councilmember Keith Powers has announced plans to introduce legislation that would formally acknowledge these beloved feline fixtures. According to a statement obtained by Gothamist, the bill is currently in the drafting stage and is expected to be introduced at the upcoming City Council meeting.
The legislation aims to settle a legal gray area where bodega cats are not explicitly prohibited but are against health regulations. To fully embrace and safely incorporate the bodega cats into city life, the bill will include certain stipulations. Cats will be required to be vaccinated, neutered, and certified to maintain compliance during health inspections. Keith Powers emphasized the practicality of having cats in bodegas, as they naturally help to keep the establishments free of rodents. This initiative aligns with Mayor Eric Adams' anti-rat agenda. Powers also noted to Gothamist that the move could help prevent storeowners from facing fines.
In support of the bill, a free vaccination program for these "four-legged deli managers" is also under consideration. This program addresses concerns raised by a grassroots petition, which pointed out the risk and fines that bodega owners face due to "outdated health codes and inconsistent care practices." The petition, driven by the efforts of Dan Rimada, founder of Bodega Cats of New York, emphasized the necessity for legal protection and veterinary resources for these cats. Rimada hailed the legislation as a "huge moment" for bodega cats and their admirers, as stated in an interview with The Post.
The bill appears to have broad support, as Powers has been actively discussing his proposal with other councilmembers. While Mayor Adams' office has yet to officially comment, the councilman highlighted the historical and cultural significance of these cats, saying "They are everywhere in New York City, and they have been everywhere since as far as I remember back to my childhood." In speaking to Gothamist, he expressed hope that bodega owners would find a way to legalize the cats. If the state enacts similar legislation, bodega cats could receive official legal status, representing a change in the health code related to this aspect of New York City’s culture.
