October 3, 2019
Until recently, people who abuse animals have been able to escape felony convictions and jail sentences due to the leniency of many state and local animal cruelty laws. However, several states have already begun changing the language in their laws and the degree of punishment to better reflect the horrible crimes committed against helpless animals. Thanks to Senators Hottinger and O’Brien, Ohio could soon be added to this list.
Senate Bill 205, introduced on September 30th, aims to strengthen Ohio’s animal cruelty laws. Specifically, it would raise the penalty for killing a companion animal from a misdemeanor to a felony, increasing the likelihood of prison time for those convicted. This bill would also punish those who aid in killing a companion animal. Click here to access the full text of the bill.
Take Action: Ohio residents, please contact your state senators and tell them to vote YES on Senate Bill 205 to better protect animals from senseless and cruel abuse! Click here to locate the senators in your district.