Yesterday, the Governor signed 3 important bills into law that will collectively protect people and pets from dangerous situations by incorporating their safety into domestic abuse protections.
I am proud to have sponsored Senate Bill 71, which will require law enforcement agencies, the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families, and the Department of Justice to report suspected animal cruelty that is discovered while performing their responsibilities in child welfare cases to the Office of Animal Welfare (OAW). Importantly, it also provides immunity to people who in good faith, report suspected animal cruelty to OAW.
There is a strong link between intra-familial abuse and animal abuse. When animals in a home are abused or neglected, it is a warning sign that others in the household may not be safe. With the help of Senate Bill 71, social workers and case workers can play key roles in cross-reporting animal abuse and human violence.
Far too often, our pets get caught in the middle of family disputes or used as tools of manipulation or abuse. I’m proud to be the Senate Prime Sponsor of House Bill 95, which will require Family Court to award possession and provide for the care of companion animals when dividing marital property.
I am also glad to join Senator Nicole Poore in Co-Sponsoring Senate Bill 70. This bill addresses both animal welfare and domestic abuse by giving Family Court the authority to treat animal violence as a red flag in a protection from abuse case and keep pets away from abusers.
Thank you to my colleagues and Governor Carney for signing this legislative package into law and their continuous support and dedication to protect those from animal cruelty and violence against a child, spouse, or intimate partner.