Hearing on HB 1777 this Tuesday

Missouri Bill Will Make Punishing Neglectful Owners Easier

Mary Rice, Best Friends Network News Volunteer

This Tuesday, March 4th, the Missouri Crime Prevention and Public Safety committee will be holding a hearing to discuss HB 1777. This bill is an attempt to make Missouri’s animal neglect statute less stringent, allowing for more prosecutions of cruel behavior to animals. Right now, the language in Missouri’s law requires “substantial harm” before someone can be convicted of animal neglect. HB 1777 would change the language to a less strict standard which says that any person who “negligently fails to provide adequate care or adequate control” can be punished. Along with changing the standard, this bill would also remove the current cap on monetary damages, which does not allow for fines in excess of one thousand dollars. If you would like to learn more about this bill click on the link below.

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Legislative Summary

Photo credit: Mary Rice