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House to vote on animal cruelty bill this afternoon

Ashley Books
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PENNSYLVANIA - After agreeing on an amendment between Senator Richard Alloway, R-Chambersburg, and the House of Representatives, the House is expected to vote on House Bill 869 this afternoon.

According to a news release from Alloway, House Bill 869 was approved by the Senate on Oct. 19. The bill aims to prevent animal abuse and neglect and increase penalties for those convicted of animal abuse. Several of the provisions within the bill include:

  • The creation of a new definition of "aggravated cruelty to animals" in order to provide tougher penalties for crimes committed against animals. This provision mirrors Libre's Law, which Alloway introduced last month.
  • A prohibition against tethering dogs for an extended period of time without basic needs, such as water and shelter. 
  • The addition of horses to Pennsylvania's animal cruelty laws. This provision mirrors Cordelia's Law, which is a bill introduced by Senator John Eichelberger, R-30, and was approved by the Senate last year.
  • A provision for the forfeiture of animals by abusers.

"Several recent heartbreaking cases of abuse and neglect have made it abundantly clear that we need to do more to protect defenseless animals," said Alloway. "This bill brings together some of the most important measures that have been introduced to prevent abuse and hold abusers accountable for their actions."

Senate passes bill to prevent animal abuse, neglect

According to a spokesperson for Alloway, the House has a rule prohibiting a vote on any bill that has been amended less than 24 hours beforehand.

If the bill is approved, it will be sent back to the Senate to concur on the changes.

This is a developing story. Continue checking back for more updates.

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