Bill Increasing Animal Abuse Penalties Does Not Pass

Last month we informed you that a bill that would increase penalties for animal abusers was as close as it's ever been to passing. Unfortunately, that bill did not make it to the governor's desk.

The bill would have classified certain animal abuse as a felony. According to CBS2/FOX28, it would have created a "class D felony penalty for first offenses, which can be punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine up to $7,500. Second offenders found guilty would be convicted of a class C felony." The bill was mainly for domestic animals, as it excluded farm animals and livestock.

It's unfortunate that we weren't able to do better for our animals and get this one passed. According to WeAreIowa.com, news outlet 5 On Your Side found that the leadership in the Senate wouldn't let the bill go to the floor (despite the votes being there to support it). It's safe to say that animal rights advocates are not happy with how this one turned out, but will continue to fight.