Members of the Massachusetts House and Senate on Thursday enacted a bill aimed at protecting animal welfare and safety.
Senate Bill 2345 includes many of the provisions of the original PAWS Act filed by Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr in October 2013.
The legislation was initially drafted in honor of Puppy Doe, a female pit bull who was euthanized on August 31, 2013 because of extensive injuries she suffered from long term damage to her body.
The modified bill calls for:
- Increasing the possible fine for committing animal abuse from $2,500 to $5,000 for a first offense, and up to $10,000 for a second and any subsequent offenses
- Raising the maximum time in prison from 5 to 7 years for a first offense and up to 10 years for a second and any subsequent offenses
- Requiring veterinarians to report suspected animal abuse
- Creating a special task force of experts in law enforcement, animal protection, veterinary practice, legal professionals and industry professionals to review methods to prevent animal abuse and pushin those who commit animal abuse
The bill now heads to Governor Patrick's desk for his signature.
