MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW)- Two South Carolina lawmakers have proposed bills to prevent repeat animal cruelty offenders from owning or adopting pets.
One bill proposed by Representative Jonathan Hill and co-sponsored by state representative Russell Fry of Surfside Beach would prohibit a repeat offender of animal cruelty from owning an animal for up to 5 years.
The Grand Strand Humane Society officials said it’s time South Carolina lawmakers took this step. The shelter houses animals from neglect and cruelty cases.
Grand Strand Humane Society director Jessica Wnuk said they sometimes see the same abused animal in and out of the shelter.
“To see the same animal we had to release back into the public to come back again in bad shape is probably the most heart breaking thing we have to deal with in the shelter,” said Wnuk.
Another bill proposed by York County Representative Bruce Bryant would not allow someone convicted of animal cruelty to adopt an animal. The humane society often cares for animals while they’re on court hold.
Llama was one of those dogs. They said habitual offenders can strain the Humane Society’s resources.
“South carolina is a bit behind the times in regard to legislation for animal welfare, so we are so happy to see these lawmakers take an active role and try to improve animal welfare across the state,” said Wnuk.
Wnuk said this a great first step, but thinks there should be even harsher penalties.
“If they are habitual animal abusers, have been arrested multiple times, and have a record it’s not something that should have a time limit. In our opinion, they should never be allowed to own another pet,” said Wnuk.
The Humane Society said if you think an animal is being mistreated to call your local authorities. They said to keep calling and don’t give up.
As for the proposed bills, they’re both currently in committee.