Woof! Bill clarifies authority to care for abused and neglected animals

Rep. Roger Goodman (D–Kirkland) has introduced HB 1234, clarifying the authority for law enforcement agencies and local animal care and control agencies to take possession of an abused or neglected animal.

The bill would:

• Clarify the authority of law enforcement and animal control officers to take possession of abused or neglected animals, giving law enforcement or animal control officers authority to enter private property and seize an animal without a warrant if there is probable cause to believe that an animal is in immediate danger, is suffering from serious physical injury or infirmity, or needs immediate medical attention.
• Give officers authority to place the seized animal into the custody of an animal care agency, foster care, or a nonprofit humane society, animal sanctuary, or rescue organization.
• Establish a uniform petition process for the return of a seized animal, including requiring owners to post bond to cover minimum care; and
• Create a new definition of “minimum care”.

The bill had a public hearing last week in the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee.