(New York, NY) -- If you're a fan of feeding squirrels or pigeons around New York City it could soon cost you a fine, or even a night in jail.
The Parks Department is considering stepping up their enforcement with a 50-dollar-fine for those caught feeding animals where it's been banned, such as in Madison Square Park. From a legal perspective, feeding the animals would be considered "abuse" under the policy. Repeat offenders would face jail time.
Officials argue feeding animals attracts rats, while some counter that rodents actually go for trash, and that cleaning up parks and improving trash cans are the answer.
(Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)
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