State Rep. Bolinsky Backs Strengthening Animal Cruelty Laws

From the Connecticut House Republicans:

HARTFORD – On Saturday afternoon, State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-Newtown) stood in strong support of a bill that seeks to increase penalties for repeat animal abusers.

The new legislation, which Rep. Bolinsky cosponsored, increases the penalty for a subsequent offense of malicious and intentional animal cruelty to a Class C felony, which is punishable by imprisonment of up to ten years and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Under current law, this offense is a Class D felony, which is punishable by imprisonment of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $5000.

“We have a duty to ensure humane treatment for pets and domestic animals. There's a special bond that ties most of us to our four-legged companions but, for all the comfort and love they give us, the circle is broken if we do not return their love and care for them in a humane, considerate way,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “This bill increases penalties for abusers and, where repeat offenses occur, comes down hard to deter future cruel acts against sometimes helpless animals."

The bill’s supporters have cited the need to increase penalties for these crimes to bring Connecticut more into line with other states. In the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s 2015 U.S. Animal Protection Law rankings, Connecticut ranked 31st in the nation for anti-violent animal laws.

The bill now moves to the state Senate for its approval. The 2016 legislative session adjourns at midnight on Wednesday, May 4.