Over the summer the story of Libre, a Boston terrier puppy who wasn't expected to live after surviving unfathomable neglect at a farm in Pennsylvania, outraged animal lovers across the nation.
While he never should have suffered the way he did, his case has led to some positive changes, including the creation of a tip line for cruelty in Lancaster County and the surrender of his mother who has since been adopted, it has also inspired the introduction of legislation that would strengthen animal cruelty laws in the state.
When Libre's story reached Senator Richard Alloway, he pledged to introduce legislation that would strengthen animal cruelty laws in the state. He kept his word and has just introduced Libre's Law (SB 1372), which will increase penalties for the cruelty and neglect of companion animals, in addition to adding a new classification for offenders who cause the death or serious bodily injury of an animal. If it passes, violators could be found facing third-degree felony charges.
Please sign and share this petition urging lawmakers in Pennsylvania to help ensure that penalties fit the crime when it comes to animal cruelty by passing Libre's Law.
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As someone who is concerned about animal welfare and weak penalties for those who abuse animals, I was thrilled to learn that legislation has been introduced that would strengthen Pennsylvania's animal cruelty laws.
Libre's Law, which was inspired by the heartbreaking case of the cruelty and neglect of a four-month-old Boston terrier puppy, would increase penalties for the cruelty and neglect of companion animals, in addition to adding a new classification for offenders who cause the death or serious bodily injury of an animal. If passed, it would also finally bring Pennsylvania in line with a vast majority of other states that have much-needed felony-level charges for extreme cases.
What happened to Libre is unforgivable, but with this law some good may come out of his horrifying past and help ensure that those who needlessly, or intentionally, cause the suffering of animals are held accountable with more appropriate penalties.
I sincerely hope you will stand against animal cruelty by passing Libre's Law.
