An Act Prohibiting The Sale Or Transfer Of A Horse, Dog Or Domesticated Feline When Such Sale Or Transfer Will Result In The Death Of Such Animal.
If enacted, the bill would amend existing statutes to include stronger safeguards against the sale or transfer of domesticated animals under circumstances where their life would be threatened. This legislation reflects a growing concern for animal rights within the community and aligns with broader trends in legal frameworks that seek to protect animals from maltreatment. The bill establishes that violators can be held liable for damages, with implications for enforcing animal welfare standards in transactions involving domesticated animals.
House Bill 05199 aims to enhance protections for domesticated animals, specifically horses, dogs, and domesticated felines, by prohibiting their sale or transfer when such actions are likely to result in the death of these animals. The proposed legislation requires that any person with custody of these animals must obtain a written authorization from the owner prior to any sale or transfer that could lead to the animal's demise. By instituting this measure, the bill seeks to prevent situations where animals may be sold to individuals or entities that would harm or kill them, thus promoting animal welfare in the state.
The bill may face challenges or criticisms regarding its implementation and the practicalities of enforcement. Opponents might argue that the requirement for written authorization could complicate legitimate transactions between shelters and prospective pet owners. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the threshold for determining when a sale or transfer would likely lead to death, creating potential ambiguities in enforcement. Nonetheless, supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step toward a more humane approach to animal ownership and ensures accountability among those handling domesticated animals.