Change In Animal Cruelty Laws

June 30, 2001 was a great day for those who love animals. On that day Governor Ventura signed into law the bill providing felony status for animal cruelty violations in Minnesota. The legislation puts Minnesota in line with other states that have enhanced penalties for crimes against animals, recognizing the danger animal abusers pose to our pets as well as to children and other vulnerable beings.

Effective August 1, 2001, the revised Minnesota Statue 2000, Section 343, provides graduated penalties depending on the severity of the harm to the animal and also on the past record of the offender. Entry-level abuse constitutes a misdemeanor. Subsequent violations within 5 years are gross misdemeanors. If the violation causes substantial bodily harm to a pet or companion animal, the offense carries felony status and a penalty of not more than one year in prison and a fine of not more than $3,000 or both. If the violation results in death or great bodily harm to the animal, the penalty is not more than 2 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000 or both.

Penalties for death or great bodily harm to service animals are even greater. There are also penalties of four years in prison or $10,000 in fines or both for those who use animals abuse to terrorize or threaten another person. The passage of this bill sends a message to animal abusers that civilized society will not tolerate their behavior. It also recognizes the serious threat abusers create for human beings.

Nancy Ninion of Second Chance Animal Rescue deserves great credit for her perseverance over many years in the fight to protect animals. Thanks also to Northwoods friends who took time to send messages to the legislature in support of this action. Public pressure on the legislature was very helpful in achieving our goal.

By Barb Keen