Senate Passes Animal Cruelty Bill | Video

Jennifer Joas | 2/8/2013

An animal cruelty bill passed on the State Senate floor this afternoon that would increase the penalties for abusing or neglecting animals. The bill would make the third offense of abuse a felony.

Lawmakers who support the bill say they favor the bill because it includes all forms of animals, instead of just dogs, cats and horses like Measure 5 did.

"The voters of North Dakota need to pat themselves on the back for not passing Measure 5 and letting this very important bill have its day in the legislative process," said Senator Larry Luick (R) from Fairmont.

The bill passed the Senate Floor with 45 yes votes, while two senators were absent. It will now be passed to the House.

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