JACKSON HOLE, WYO – A bill that would toughen penalties for Cruelty to Animals was shot down in the House yesterday on a 32-27 vote.
HB48 called for aggravated cruelty to animals to be classified a felony punishable by not more than two years imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000, or both. Misdemeanor offenses would be punishable by imprisonment for not more than six months, a fine of not more than $2,500, or both.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Mike Gierau, said he knew piece of legislation would be a tough sell in Cheyenne, especially given a 2/3 majority vote would be needed in a budget session year of the Legislature. He brought the legislation in great part due to constituents’ requests after a local outfitter, Forest Stearns, was arrested and put on trial for abusing a pack horse he owned.
While the measure failed, Gierau was pleased with awareness it raised and the strong support that would be more compelling in a general session next year.
Local Reps. Mike Gierau, Marti Halverson, and Andy Schwartz all voted in favor.
