Legislation Aims to Safeguard Pets and Victims in Domestic Violence Cases

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HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania lawmakers convened at the state Capitol on Tuesday to advocate for House Bill 1210, a bipartisan initiative poised to expand protections for victims of domestic violence by incorporating measures for their pets. Introduced by State Representatives Christina Sappey, D-Chester, and Natalie Mihalek, R-Allegheny/Washington, the bill seeks to amend the current Protection from Abuse Act, granting judges the authority to prevent abusers from possessing or harming the victim’s companion animals.

The motivation behind this legislation is rooted in the intersection of domestic violence and animal abuse. Statistics reveal a disturbing trend where abusers leverage threats or harm to pets as a means of control and coercion over victims, exacerbating their trauma. Sappey highlighted this link, stating, “Abusers will often abuse or threaten the abuse of pets to further torment the victim or keep them from leaving.”

Mihalek, drawing on her experience as a former prosecutor, underscored the prevalence of such cases, noting, “Abuse victims often choose to stay with their abuser out of concern for their pets.” According to the Humane Society of the United States, 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also targeted pets, underscoring the need for legal protections.

Supporters of the bill argue that it addresses a critical barrier for victims seeking to escape abusive situations. Kristen Tullo, Pennsylvania state director at the Humane Society, emphasized the importance of the bill, stating that up to 49% of domestic violence victims hesitate to leave out of fear for their pets’ safety. This legislation, she asserts, is vital for ensuring comprehensive safety measures for both individuals and their animals.

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The bill has garnered support from various advocacy groups and legal experts. Natalie Ahwesh of Humane Action Pennsylvania and Dana Friday from the PAWS for Empowerment Program both advocate for the measure as a necessary step in removing obstacles for victims fleeing abuse.

The legislation enjoys bipartisan support, passing the House in July 2023 and receiving unanimous endorsement from the Senate Judiciary Committee. As the full Senate prepares to vote, Sappey urged action, stating, “The Senate has the power to pass House Bill 1210 and help provide peace of mind to survivors of domestic violence.”

Should the bill pass, Pennsylvania would align with 37 other states and territories that have enacted similar laws, prioritizing the welfare of pets in protective orders. Advocates argue that such reforms are crucial for protecting the vulnerable, human and animal alike, and for allowing victims of domestic violence to leave dangerous situations without the added burden of concern for their pets.

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