On Friday, April 2, the Wyoming Legislature gave final approval to a bill that modifies guidelines for animals being seized on suspicion of cruelty, and subsequent hearings.
As approved by a conference committee and the Speaker of the House and Senate President, Senate File 25 includes an amendment requested by AKC to ensure animals will be returned to their owners:
“If, after the hearing, the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the animal was not subjected to a violation of this article, the animal shall be returned to the owner of the animal and the owner shall not be responsible for any costs of the impoundment…”
As introduced, the bill stated that the animal may be returned to the owner. AKC appreciates this important amendment to ensure that owners will not lose their animals simply on a suspicion of cruelty.
The bill will likely soon be sent to the governor.
For questions or more information, contact AKC Government Relations at www.akcgr.org.