A.G. Gancarski
The Senate has amended the House version of a bill (HB 255) that would set up a registry for those who abuse animals, sending the bill back to the House with language conforming to the Senate version.
Democratic Sen. Kristen Arrington said the amendment “directs the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to post on its website a searchable database of those who have committed crimes of animal abuse. The database is a resource tool, enabling anyone in the state of Florida to look up an animal offender and therefore keep animals out of the hands of abusers.”
“Most notably, access to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement database will be a vital tool for animal welfare organizations when vetting individuals seeking to adopt the vulnerable animals and their care,” she added. “This access will empower them to thoroughly screen potential adopters and prevent animals from being placed in homes where they may be at risk for further abuse.”
Democratic Sen. Tracie Davis asked about the “searchable database” and whether accusations were enough to get included.
“It’s not about the accusation. It requires a conviction,” said Republican Sen. Tom Leek, who carried the bill through the Senate.
Leek noted that it could be sealed or expunged like any other conviction.
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.
