Amy Doyle | Oppose HB1766

HB 1766 would eliminate any duly licensed humane society from having any role in the confiscation of livestock in cruelty cases. The current law allows this, with exception to livestock without a licensed vet. This bill removes humane organizations like the NHSPCA as an able party and further states that because they are not an employee of the government we would no longer be allowed to contribute our assistance in the process of determining temporary protective custody, discussions about seizure and would be forbidden from taking part in or be present during any investigation in a complaint. Only a law enforcement officer, our State Veterinarian (or their designee), and an Animal Control Officer can have any involvement. Prohibiting duly licensed humane societies in this way will eliminate a vital resource in the investigation of animal cruelty. HB 1766 eliminates the list of penalties offered to the court which could be imposed upon convicted offenders including: restrictions from possessing animals, engaging in employment in the care of animals and other prohibitions necessary to protect animals from these same people in the future. Having this language removed dilutes the power of the court thereby enabling future abuses to potentially continue. I have seen and reported numerous animal neglect situations, in various towns I have lived in. Animals being abused or outright neglected, especially the often invisible livestock animals, deserve protections. People who participate in this abuse and neglect, regardless of intent, should be tracked, prosecuted, and not allowed to abuse more animals in the future. Any and all established, reputable rehabilitators and rescues who are willing to provide care and intervention to better help these animals, who suffer in silence, should be allowed and encouraged to do so. These matters should not be left to the overworked and understaffed goverment departments.