A.G. Gancarski
Floridians who abuse cats, dogs and other animals could have their cruelty memorialized on a public record soon.
The Senate Fiscal Policy Committee has advanced legislation (SB 494) by Sen. Tom Leek. That is the last stop before the floor for what the Ormond Beach Republican calls a way to “keep animals out of the hands of abusers.”
The bill would compel the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to post on its website in a searchable format the names of people convicted of animal cruelty and those who pleaded guilty or no contest to the same.
“Access to the FDLE’s database will be a vital tool for animal welfare organizations when vetting individuals seeking to adopt the vulnerable animals in their case and their care. This access will empower them to thoroughly screen potential doctors and prevent animals from being placed in homes where they may be at risk for further abuse,” Leek said.
The bill also would enhance penalties for animal cruelty.
“Under current law, aggravated animal cruelty is a third-degree felony and scores 28 points on the criminal punishment code scoresheet,” Leek said.
“SB 494 creates a 1.25 sentence multiplier, which must be applied to a defendant’s total sentencing points to determine his or her total sentencing point. Under the bill, an aggravated animal cruelty offense would score 35 points, depending on the individual prior record, the multiplier will help increase the offender’s total sentencing score to an amount that requires a judge to sentence him or her to prison.”
If passed and signed, the measure would be effective July 1, with implementation required by Jan. 1, 2026.
A similar bill passed the House without a “no” vote, and the Senate ultimately will have to reconcile the products during its own consideration of the measure.
