Three States Consider Animal Abuse Registry

Animal abuse registries are being considered by lawmakers in California, Rhode Island and Louisiana. The registries would function much like sex offender registries, requiring convicted animal abusers to register personal information with local law enforcement.

The Rhode Island bill requires law enforcement to notify residents, schools, humane societies, shelters and businesses within a half-mile of the registrant's residence of the previous offense and description. The Louisiana and California proposals wouldn't require notification, but would create a public database of convicted animal abusers. None of the proposals are scheduled for a vote at this time.

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Posted: 06/01/2010