Staff Reports
One of 11 bills signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Rick Scott expands use of therapy animals in court proceedings involving child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
“This legislation will help children and individuals with unique abilities in our state as they face some of the most challenging times in their life,” Scott said in a written statement.
“I cannot imagine the emotional toll these terrible circumstances place on our state’s most vulnerable populations. The comfort and support provided by therapy animals can make a profound difference in someone’s life and I’m proud to sign HB 151 today.”
HB 151 allows courts to authorize use of therapy animals or “facility dogs” for emotional support in proceedings involving children, victims, and people with intellectual disabilities.
Scott also signed legislation creating statewide regulations for ride-sharing companies like including Uber and Lyft; Senate President Joe Negron’s Lake Okeechobee restoration plan; and creating a public records exemption to shield the identities of murder witnesses.
2 comments
David Stanley
May 9, 2017 at 10:37 pm
Whether horses, dogs, pigs or goats are used, smart folks are discovering the benefits of animal therapy. Partly because of this healing affect, farmstay get-a-ways are growing in popularity. Not just for the immediate boost that comes from escaping the city and encouraging your loved ones to unplug, but also for the therapeutic affect farm animal interaction provides. This experience offers an unusual alternative to what everyone else is doing! Places like Morning Song Farm offer plenty to do in the middle of Southern California’s wine country playground, and lots of healthy organic fruit and vegetables to enjoy. See: morningsongfarm.com.
Glen Gibellina
May 10, 2017 at 7:51 am
Is there an animal for Parental alienation
Scott’s a loser when it comes to Parental rights
Comments are closed.