JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMOX) - Missouri lawmakers have passed a bill that would deter people from using someone's pet as a way to emotionally hurt its owner.
The legislation is now sitting on Gov. Mike Parson's desk and would allow Missouri judges to issue lifelong restraining orders that protect you and your pets.
SB 71 was approved with a 31-0 vote in the Senate on Monday. It would shield pets from those who have committed or threatened abuse, in much the same way adult and child abuse victims are given protective orders. Sen. Elaine Gannon of Bone Terre says statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence found more than 70% of pet owners in domestic violence shelters said their pets had been threatened, injured, or killed by an abuser.
Related
The law would not apply to farm animals, livestock or animals with "commercial purposes."
The bill will also allow a judge to grant restraining orders that last for longer periods of time, as well as orders that automatically renew. Currently, orders of protection are limited to one year at most, and filers have to return to court to secure an extension.
Read the full bill, here.
© 2021 KMOX (Audacy). All rights reserved
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Follow KMOX
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram