A law that would make it a felony in Ohio to knowingly harm an animal now awaits Governor John Kasich's signature. Goddard's Law, or House Bill 60, passed in its final version by the Ohio House and the Ohio Senate. The law would make causing harm to a companion animal a fifth-degree felony. The bill states that "depriving a companion animal of food, water or shelter" are all grounds for abuse. The offense would be punishable by six months to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. This includes first time offenders.
"As we see this bill become law, we hope that we will see it actually be put into action, and we are hoping Ohio continues to move in the right direction to take a serious look and stand against cruelty, and that prosecutors and judges will start implementing every law we have to the fullest extent," said Teresa Landon, Ohio SPCA executive director.
The bill was named after Dick Goddard, a longtime meteorologist and animals right advocate.
