PAWS 2 legislation holds people accountable for animal abuse
Protecting the welfare of animals is embedded in our values as a Commonwealth. Animal welfare reflects the broader public safety concerns at the center of many conversations today. In 2014, we passed the Protect Animal Welfare and Safety, better known as the PAWS Act. This marked the Commonwealth’s first step toward standing as a clear leader in holding individuals accountable for abusing animals.
Building on the initial PAWS legislation, today the House passed “PAWS 2” - An Act to protect animal welfare and safety in cities and towns. The bill expands on the punishments for those who abuse animals and the ability to report instances of violence committed toward animals.
PAWS 2 is a result of the devoted work from a task force created by the 2014 legislation to study a range of issues relative to current animal cruelty laws. After 23 meetings over the course of 19 months, the task force’s recommendations informed the PAWS’ successor legislation. The bill passed today updates existing laws and builds on our commitment to ensure that every animal has a safe livelihood.
Under the “PAWS 2 bill”, new criminal penalties are established relative to the severity of the animal welfare transgression committed. Any drowning of animals and sexual conduct with animals are strictly prohibited. Fines are increased for violations relating to kennel license and dog control laws.
Human services professionals have expanded ability to report incidences of abuse. Employees of the department of elder affairs and investigators of the disabled persons protection commission, who know or reasonably suspect animal cruelty, to report the abuse or neglect to animal control. Courts also hold the authority to consider a person’s history of animal abuse as a basis for making a detention determination or setting conditions for release.
The impact of the “PAWS 2” bill is not limited to animals. Current research conducted by Northeastern University and MSCPA shows compelling evidence for the link between animal abuse and violence toward humans. The study found a person who committed animal abuse is five times more likely to commit violence against people. By incorporating these statistics into our decision making, we can be more effective at addressing issues of violence.
Legislative progress starts with engaging community partners. In the 15th Suffolk district, we are fortunate to host one of the state’s leading voices in animal welfare advancement – MSCPA Angell. While we celebrate the passage of vital revisions to animal protection, I also want to acknowledge the MSCPA Angell’s tireless advocacy and collaboration with my office in the crafting of the PAWS 2 bill. As their reputation and storied history displays, MSCPA Angell shines as a consummate provider of animal care.
It brings great pride to the State House to build on the Commonwealth’s leadership in animal welfare protection. I am grateful for the leadership of Speaker DeLeo, my colleagues in the House, the PAWS task force, MSCPA and animal welfare advocates, and so many others for working to pass this bill. Through collaboration, our communities are taking a stand to enhance the safety of both people and animals in Massachusetts.
