BOSTON - Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) announced the passage of legislation intended to enhance humane treatment of animals, and to punish those who engage in animal cruelty.
“As a proud dog owner, and having served as an Environmental Police Officer, I certainly recognize the importance of protecting vulnerable animal populations,” said Senator Moore. “I was pleased to offer my support for this legislation which offers commonsense reforms to enhance safety and care standards to protect animals and to prevent cruel treatment.”
The legislation furthers anti-abuse measures first secured in the 2014 Protecting Animal Welfare and Safety bill. The bill, also known as the PAWS Act, was introduced following the discovery of extreme abuse and cruelty in the case of a dog that was stabbed, burned, cut and had bones broken. The “Puppy Doe” case led to the arrest and conviction of Radoslaw Czerkawski who was recently convicted of 12 counts of animal cruelty and sentenced to 8 to 10 years in prison.
Key provisions of the animal welfare bill, Senate Bill 2646, an act to Protect Animal Welfare and Safety in Cities and Towns, include those which:
Expands potential for abuse reports - Permits animal abuse be reported by Department of Children and Families, the Department of Elder Affairs, and Disabled Persons Protection Commission. Adds animal control officers as mandatory reporters of child abuse, elder abuse, and abuse against disabled persons
Ensures efficient enforcement of animal control laws - Increases fines for violations of dog control laws up to $500 for a fourth offence.
Doubles the hit and run penalty for an accident involving dogs & cats - From $50 to $100 for a first offence - $500 for subsequent offences and the cost of medical expenses, and or imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than 6 months
Prohibits the drowning of animals - Declares that drowning of animals is a violation of law for non-licensed trappers or those registered with Fish and Wildlife
Prohibits engaging in sexual contact with an animal
Removes automatic killing of animals involved in animal fighting - Removes a requirement to automatically kill animals involved in animal fighting. This bill creates other options for these animal victims
Adds animal crimes to the list of offenses that serve as the basis for a request for a dangerousness hearing
Examines options to prohibit discrimination against specific dog breeds – Requires insurance companies to collect and report data of dog related incidents
Requires abandoned animal checks in vacant properties - Property owners and landlords must check property for abandoned animals within three days following a foreclosure or termination of tenancy
To view the newly-signed law, please visit the Legislature's website by clicking below.