Peanut’s Law introduced in New York after state euthanizes social media-famous squirrel

New York introduces Peanut’s Law, requiring a 72-hour delay before euthanizing animals seized by the state.

After Peanut the Squirrel’s controversial death, New York proposes a law to prevent immediate animal euthanization.

Peanut’s Law was officially introduced on April 8, 2025, at the New York State Capitol. It proposes a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before the euthanization of any animals taken by the state. This window would allow for an appeals process and access to veterinary care.

The bill honors Peanut, a squirrel rescued by Mark Longo after his mother was killed. Longo rehabilitated the animal, but after failed attempts to release him, Peanut became a beloved pet and online personality, amassing over 900,000 Instagram followers. On October 30, 2024, officials from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) raided the Longo residence without a warrant and seized Peanut and another squirrel, Fred.

The DEC claimed they received public complaints regarding the unsafe housing of wildlife and possible rabies exposure. However, rabies testing in animals requires euthanization and decapitation. Reports suggest that the animals were already marked for testing on October 23, before the raid occurred.

Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, who introduced the bill, called the euthanization an act of “government overreach” and a tragic failure in animal welfare.

Peanut’s Law aims to prevent such situations from happening again, ensuring that animals like Peanut receive due process and care before any life-ending decision is made.

Supporters, including Mark and Daniela Longo, hope the bill will protect future animals from similar fates and mark a step forward in animal rights advocacy.