Cutrona Takes Lead on Legislation Addressing Animal Cruelty

State Senator Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) introduced Senate Bill 265 which disqualifies a person from being a foster caregiver or adoptive parent if they have been convicted of animal cruelty and harm to companion animals. This legislation follows Senate Bill 252, also introduced by Senator Cutrona, which prohibits the declawing of cats in Ohio. 

“Cruelty of any kind towards animals should give the government pause of the types of people deemed responsible to foster a child,” said Senator Cutrona. “Addressing these concerns of harm towards animals provides increased awareness of animal cruelty across the Valley and Eastern Ohio. I look forward to continue advocating on behalf of companion animals throughout this biennium.”

Studies have shown that individuals who commit child abuse have likely committed abuse to a companion animal as well. Senate Bill 265 closes the gap in Ohio law by disqualifying a person who has been convicted of animal cruelty, harm to companion animals, animal fighting, dogfighting, or sexual conduct with an animal from being a foster caregiver or adoptive parent. Under current law, the offense of cruelty to a companion animal is not cited when conducting a criminal background check on potential caregivers. The bill has yet to be assigned to a committee for hearings.  

Senate Bill 252 prohibits the practice of declawing domestic cats in the state of Ohio. An exception is included in the bill for when a licensed veterinarian determines it is necessary in order to address a medical condition for the cat. The practice is currently banned in six other states and numerous cities throughout the United States in addition to being banned in 42 other countries. The bill has yet to be assigned to a committee for hearings.

Additionally, Senator Cutrona's Senate Bill 64 which increases penalties for cruelty to companion animals is pending in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

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