New York’s Columbia County has enacted a groundbreaking registry that will significantly impede the ability of anyone with a history of animal cruelty to acquire or adopt an animal, as reported by News 10.
In the proposal of the law, the Columbia County Board of Supervisors stated that “animal cruelty is a serious concern for Columbia County and its citizens.” The first iteration didn’t pass, but the bill was quickly revised and approved 14-8.
Once it goes into effect, the Animal Abuser Registry Law will require adult residents convicted of animal abuse to register as offenders. Offenders will be placed on the registry for seven years from the date of their conviction or prison release. If convicted a second time, they could be in the Animal Abuse Registry for the rest of their life.
Under the new law, all companion animal dealers and shelters must also diligently check the registry and refuse to provide a companion animal to registered animal abusers. The law does not cover commercial farm animals.
The decision of the board to hold dealers and shelters accountable for upholding the law was a point of contention for board members, including Supervisor Tistrya Houghtling, who voted against it. She claimed that it is unfair to place the burden of responsibility on pet shop employees and shelter staff, who might not be well-informed about the details of the law.
In spite of Houghtling’s assertion, along with New York’s impending ban on the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores, the future looks promising for animal welfare in New York.
“This law has a lot of teeth in it,” Robert Lagonia, chairman of the board’s Public Safety Committee, told the Daily Gazette. “This is something that’s important to the community. We represent the community here.”
Lady Freethinker applauds Columbia County for creating a registry that will help protect animals from future abuse. This law is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of our animal companions.
