ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Lawmakers are proposing solutions to address animal abuse following recent investigations, protests, and a lawsuit concerning local law enforcement’s response.
Assemblymember Jen Lunsford is working on two bills aimed at creating first and second degree crimes for animal abuse and neglect. The bills also propose harsher punishments for repeat offenders.
“It would give us broader authority to use discretion to determine if something is unsafe, even if it hasn’t actively caused harm to the animal at that moment,” Lunsford said.
Currently, both bills are in the committee stage, and further steps are needed before they can become law.
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- Animal advocacy group demands Rochester police address alleged cruelty, sues for enforcement (Feb. 9)
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