A new bill sponsored by Sen. Michelle Hinchey (D-41st District) has passed in the state Senate, aiming to protect animals left behind when properties are vacated.

Under this bill, property owners would be required to inspect vacated properties for abandoned pets within three days of a tenant's departure.

In the event an abandoned animal is discovered, the property owner would have to immediately notify animal control, police or the SPCA.

This initiative comes as April is recognized as Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month.