Legislation
These are the bills we are currently watching. This information will be updated as they move through the legislative process.
Ohio Senate Bill 64: Increase Penalties for Companion Animal Cruelty Offenses
CONTACT OHIO SENATE JUDICIARY MEMBERS- Tap on their pictures, then tap the "Contact" tab:
SENATE BILL 64: INCREASE PENALTIES FOR COMPANION ANIMAL CRUELTY OFFENSES- Tap the "Documents" tab to read and track the bill:
WFMJ ARTICLE ABOUT THE BILL-
SAMPLE LETTER 1 for S.B. 64- Copy, paste, and personalize it:
Dear Senator _______,
Senate Bill 64 intends to reduce repeat animal cruelty offenses and protect vulnerable companion animals from potential harm. When the opportunity arises, I urge you to support this bill.
This bill aims to strengthen animal welfare laws by imposing stricter penalties for those who are convicted of animal cruelty. It also aims to restrict those found guilty of felony animal abuse from owning or living with companion animals for a period of time.
Please consider these points:
In 2016, the FBI raised the status of animal cruelty cases to Class A felonies, the same category as murder and arson. The FBI recognizes that animal cruelty needs to be taken seriously.
Understanding the connection between animal cruelty and violence against people can help save lives. Studies have found that if animals are being abused in a home, it’s more likely that child abuse, elder abuse, or domestic violence is also happening.
Ignoring or minimizing animal cruelty today creates more violence in the future. Children who witness animal abuse are eight times more likely to abuse animals as teens or adults.
Harsher penalties can deter potential offenders from committing animal cruelty, and longer sentences can protect the public from repeat offenders.
The welfare of Ohio’s companion animals is important to me, and as [personalize this- a voter in Ohio, your constituent, someone who voted for you, etc…], I am counting on your support. [Add anything else you feel is important to say.]
I strongly urge you to support Senate Bill 64 as it addresses a critical issue in animal welfare- the need for stronger deterrents against animal cruelty. If passed, this bill could lead to a significant cultural shift in how animal abuse is perceived and handled in Ohio.
Sincerely,
Your name
Your mailing address
Your email
US House Bill 1477: Establish an Animal Cruelty Crimes Section Within the US Department of Justice
CONTACT US HOUSE JUDICIARY MEMBERS- Tap on their picture, then tap their email or contact button (Some will not allow you to use the contact form unless you are from the state they represent. Send it to as many as you can. Definitely send it to Jim Jordan since he represents Ohio.):
US HOUSE BILL 1477- You will be able to read and track the bill here:
WFMJ ARTICLE ABOUT THE BILL-
SAMPLE LETTER 1 for H.R. 1477- Copy, paste, and personalize the last paragraph.
Dear Representative _______,
H.R. 1477, also known as the Animal Cruelty Enforcement (ACE) Act, is designed to ensure better protection of animals and to keep our communities safe. When the opportunity arises, I urge you to support this bill.
The Department of Justice often has lengthy delays, with many animal cruelty cases left unprosecuted. This bill aims to establish a dedicated Animal Cruelty Crimes Section to aid in investigating, enforcing, and prosecuting animal cruelty crimes.
It is imperative that animal abusers face consequences for their actions. Consider these points:
In 2016, the FBI raised the status of animal cruelty cases to Class A felonies, the same category as murder and arson. The FBI recognizes that animal cruelty needs to be taken seriously.
Understanding the connection between animal cruelty and violence against people can help save lives. Studies have found that if animals are being abused in a home, it’s more likely that child abuse, elder abuse, or domestic violence is also happening.
Ignoring or minimizing animal cruelty today creates more violence in the future. Children who witness animal abuse are eight times more likely to abuse animals as teens or adults.
[Personalize This Paragraph: Insert your thoughts here. You may want to share why this issue matters to you, a personal experience, or how you believe stronger enforcement will make a difference for companion animals and society as a whole.] Therefore, I strongly urge you to support H.R. 1477.
Sincerely,
Your name
Your mailing address
Your email