The Connecticut State Legislature adjourned on June 3 after a productive session with some positive changes for animals. Highlights from the session include:
• The passage of several good bills, including one that would require public and private higher education institutions, under certain circumstances, to offer cats and dogs used in research for adoption when research is complete, and a bill that increases efficiency in the provision of animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted activities in the state -- a powerful acknowledgement of the healing value of the human-animal bond.
• The defeat of several bad proposals, including a proposed tax on veterinary services, an attempt to raid $300,000 from the Animal Population Control Program, an amendment that would have closed Second Chance Large Animal Rehabilitation Facility, and a bill that would have negatively impacted community cat caretakers in common interest communities (like condominium complexes).
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Bills that stalled in the House included legislation that would increase penalties for malicious and intentional cruelty, restrict the commercial trade of ivory, and prohibit insurance policies from discrimination based on breed.
Also, a proposed ban of cruel gestation crates was not granted a public hearing. And sadly, Sunday hunting (with bow and on private land) was made legal in Connecticut. Even with these setbacks, we will continuing fighting for animal protection reforms.
Stay connected by following The HSUS Connecticut Facebook page or by texting HSUSCT to 30644. Want to learn how to get involved in the latest projects for animals? Email HSUS Connecticut State Director, Annie Hornish.
Thank you again for all you did on behalf of animals this session.