Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB785

Introduced
6/14/23  

Caption

Establishing the Animal Welfare Board; and providing for its powers and duties.

Impact

If enacted, the establishment of the Animal Welfare Board would significantly influence state laws regarding animal care and protection. The board's mandate includes assessing and recommending changes to legislation associated with animal cruelty and the care of domestic and farm animals. This could lead to the introduction of stricter regulations or the amendment of existing laws to enhance animal welfare standards within the state. The board is also required to report its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly biannually, potentially leading to ongoing legislative adjustments in response to its evaluations.

Summary

Senate Bill 785 aims to establish the Animal Welfare Board in Pennsylvania, which will be responsible for reviewing and making recommendations on existing laws and regulations related to the keeping and handling of animals. The bill outlines the composition of the board, which will include various stakeholders from the veterinary and agricultural sectors, as well as representatives from humane societies and law enforcement agencies. The board is tasked with ensuring that current animal welfare laws are adequate and effective in promoting humane treatment of animals while addressing pertinent issues in animal handling and welfare statutes.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB 785 appears to be positive, particularly among animal advocacy groups and those in the veterinary community who see it as an essential step towards enhancing animal welfare oversight in Pennsylvania. Proponents argue that the creation of a dedicated board will ensure that animal welfare receives the attention it deserves at the legislative level, fostering a more humane environment for animals across the state. However, some stakeholders may have concerns regarding the implementation of new regulations or the adequacy of existing laws, particularly if they feel that changes could impose undue burdens on farmers or pet owners.

Contention

The potential points of contention surrounding SB 785 may arise from differing perspectives on animal welfare regulations. While supporters advocate for greater oversight and enforcement of animal welfare standards, detractors may argue that new regulations should balance the needs of animal care with the operational concerns of agricultural practices. This tension suggests a need for careful consideration of all affected parties to ensure the legislation benefits animal welfare without negatively impacting local agricultural operations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2095

Providing increased protections for the welfare of domestic animals

PA HB832

Establishing the Pollinator Task Force and providing for its powers and duties; and imposing duties on the Department of Agriculture.

PA HB39

In special powers and duties of counties, providing for other powers and duties of county humane officers.

PA HB3345

Providing increased protections for the welfare of domestic animals

PA HB4935

Providing increased protections for the welfare of domestic animals

PA HB1630

Establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians Restricted Account; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

PA HB204

Establishing the Keystone Solvency Operating Study Commission and providing for its powers and duties and for a report.

PA HB1113

Establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians Restricted Account; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

PA HB640

In powers and duties of the Department of Public Welfare and its

PA SB1545

ANIMAL WELFARE-DOG DEALER

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