Bill to protect pets in domestic violence situations signed into law

Rep. Christina Sappey    November 22, 2024 | 12:21 PM

HARRISBURG, Nov. 22 – State Rep. Christina Sappey, D-Chester, today announced that bipartisan legislation (Act 146 of 2024) to better protect victims’ pets in domestic violence situations has been signed into law.

The bill (H.B. 1210), introduced by Sappey with state Rep. Natalie Mihalek, R- Allegheny/Washington, amends Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act to give judges the ability to order defendant to refrain from possessing, abusing or harming a petitioner’s companion animal. Previously, Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act gave judges the ability to order many kinds of relief to prevent further abuse but did not give explicit authority to order protective measures for a victim’s pets.

“We have known for some time the horrific link between domestic violence and animal abuse, Sappey said. “Abusers will use harming pets to further torment the victim or keep them from leaving, exacerbating an already traumatic situation.”

According to the Humane Society of the United States, data on domestic violence and child abuse cases reveal that a staggering number of animals are targeted by those who abuse their children or spouses. In one survey, 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also targeted pets. Researchers have found links between coercive control and the abuse of pets, with abusers often using family pets as leverage in the torment of their victims, threatening to harm or kill them if their victims leave.

House Bill 1210 was a nearly-four-year undertaking for Sappey and Mihalek and received the support of more than 70 law enforcement agencies, domestic violence and animal welfare organizations. It was passed by the state House in 2023, passed in the state Senate earlier this month and signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro this week to become Act 146 of 2024.

“This is an issue that transcends political lines because we all understand the importance of protecting the vulnerable – whether human or pet. I am so grateful to my House and Senate colleagues for understanding the consequences of this issue and acting to get this legislation through,” Sappey said.                            .”

The new law brings Pennsylvania in line with 37 other states, plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.