The Virginia House of Delegates is set to vote on Bill SB1604, which in select cases, will change punishment for the crime of animal cruelty from a misdemeanor to a felony.
With the change, punishment for the crime will increase from a Class One misdemeanor to a Class Six felony in cases where a dog or cat is unnecessarily beaten, maimed, mutilated, or killed. The bill includes SB1276, which relates to using an animal to threaten another human being, namely a family member or anyone else living in the household.
Click HERE to learn more about the legislation. Contact your delegate and/or senator right now to let them know how you feel about the legislation and animal cruelty itself!