'Libre's law' anti-cruelty measure on its way to Wolf
A Boston terrier proved an effective symbol for the legislation.
/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-pmn.s3.amazonaws.com/public/5DF4IEHNBZESFFNHZX6BDR53E4.jpg)
Libre went from starving rescue dog to high-powered lobbyist.
A Boston terrier found near death last year at an Amish dog breeding operation in Lancaster County, Libre made a miraculous recovery and inspired pending changes to Pennsylvania animal cruelty laws.
A bill known as "Libre's law" to better define and increase the punishment for animal cruelty offenses unanimously passed the Senate on Tuesday and is on its way to Gov. Wolf's desk. He has promised to sign it into law. The dog posed for victory pictures with the governor.
The bill clarifies language to better describe offenses and punishments for each offense, according to Sen. Richard Alloway (R., Franklin), a champion of the bill. Serious cases of animal abuse would be more likely to result in misdemeanor or felony charges, he said, holding criminals more accountable for their actions.
"When we treat animals with respect, we become better human beings ourselves," Sen. Daylin Leach (D., Montgomery) said during Tuesday's floor vote.
Contact Logan Hullinger at l.r.hullinger@gmail.com or 814-319-5158.