Berrios Introduces Legislation to Create Animal Abuse Registry
January 10th, 2014
CHICAGO – State Rep. Maria A. “Toni” Berrios, D-Chicago, filed legislation this week to create an animal abuse registry for previous offenders convicted of animal abuse.
“It is our responsibility to protect animals from being abused and mistreated,” Berrios said. “For many, pets are considered family, and this bill will strengthen the enforcement of animal abuse crimes throughout our state and allow for stronger prosecution of repeat offenders.”
The measure, House Bill 4188, would require residents charged with cruel treatment, aggravated cruelty, or animal torture to register with the Illinois Department of Agriculture within 30 days of being convicted. Failure to do so would result in a Class B misdemeanor for first time offenders and a Class 4 felony for a subsequent violation. The animal abuse registry would be a preventative measure to assure that convicted animal abusers will be prohibited from owning a companion animal or being employed at an animal shelter, pound, pet shop, zoo, or other business where companion animals are present.
“This legislation will help keep animals out of the company of former animal abusers,” Berrios said. “As I go door-to-door and listen to residents’ concerns, many of them own pets and talk about how important they are to the family. This bill will prevent future instances of animal abuse.”
For more information, please contact Rep. Berrios’ constituent service office at (773) 736-3939 or email at repberrios39@gmail.com
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