St. Rep. Combs Announces Passage of Lgislation to Stiffen Animal Cruelty Laws

Release:

COLUMBUS-- State Representative Courtney Combs (R-Hamilton) announced today the Ohio House voted to pass his legislation, House Bill 55, which is aimed at addressing animal cruelty.

“The Masterpiece case really brought the issue of animal cruelty in Ohio to light,” Combs said. “House Bill 55 realizes the seriousness of abusing innocent animals and creates consequences for these actions that were long overdue."
House Bill 55 would increase the penalties of cruelty to animals, require mandatory evaluation and possible therapy for minors who torture or abuse animals, and allow judges to include pets in court protection orders issued in domestic violence cases.
Last February, a three-month-old baby alpaca named Masterpiece was stolen from a farm in Butler County by two teens and one adult. According to police reports, Masterpiece was suspended in the air and severely beaten and tortured until it died. The story received national attention and was a driving force for this reform.
“Constituent outcry over this issue has been overwhelming,” Combs said. “I’m pleased that both sides of the aisle were able to agree on the importance of this legislation and the ramifications it has on reducing violence now and in the future.”
Combs’ bill now moves onto the Senate for further debate.