Connecticut House Bill HB05185

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/11
• Refer: 1/11/11

Caption

An Act Establishing An On-line Animal Abuser Registry.

Impact

If passed, this bill would amend existing statutes to include provisions for the creation and maintenance of the animal abuser registry. Funding for the registry is proposed to come from registration fees paid by those required to register. This financial mechanism ensures that the registry is self-sustaining and addresses the need for resources to implement and manage the online database. By formalizing such a registry, the legislation aims to bolster efforts in protecting animals and promoting responsible pet ownership.

Summary

House Bill 05185 proposes the establishment of an online registry for individuals convicted of felony animal abuse within the state. This initiative is aimed at providing a resource for animal shelters and organizations involved in animal adoptions, ensuring that these entities can avoid placing animals with known abusers. The bill recognizes the need for a systematic approach to prevent individuals with a history of animal abuse from acquiring new pets, thus promoting safer adoption practices across the state.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from various animal rights advocates and organizations, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the implications of labeling individuals as convicted animal abusers. Critics might argue about the potential social stigma attached to those listed on the registry, even after serving their sentences. Additionally, there may be discussions around the effectiveness of such a registry in truly preventing animal abuse and ensuring that it leads to safer environments for pets in adoption scenarios.