Sen. Bolick and Rep. Blackman Unite to Champion Groundbreaking Animal Cruelty Legislation

An animal cruelty bill aimed at defining humane conditions for pets is advancing in Arizona’s legislature. Senate Bill 1658 passed the House Committee of the Whole on May 20, having been fast-tracked for consideration prior to the House’s floor session.

This legislation seeks to clarify what constitutes inhumane conditions, specifying requirements for adequate food, water, and shelter. Additionally, it introduces a misdemeanor charge for failing to provide necessary medical care, thereby preventing unnecessary suffering.

The bill was inspired by a significant animal cruelty case from September 2023, during which 55 disabled dogs were rescued from a Chandler residence. The homeowner faced multiple charges, including animal cruelty, fraud, and theft.

While the House is expected to provide final approval in a forthcoming session, the timeline for this vote may extend due to a recess until June 4. Subsequently, the bill will need Senate validation before reaching the governor.

The Committee of the Whole hearing marks a critical milestone in a challenging legislative journey. The bill has encountered various obstacles and was resurrected as a striker amendment following its initial stall in the House.

Sen. Shawnna Bolick, R-Phoenix, has been a vocal advocate for the bill, overcoming initial doubts regarding its support. Recently, she collaborated with Arizona Humane Society President and CEO Dr. Steven Hansen, rallying supporters to emphasize the bill’s importance just before the House session.

Support has emerged from various lawmakers, including Rep. Walt Blackman, R-Snowflake, and Sen. Lauren Kuby, D-Tempe. Bolick stated, “I decided to introduce Senate Bill 1658 when I learned of significant shortcomings in the state that make it difficult to prosecute people who commit cruelty against companion animals.”

Originally filed as Senate Bill 1234, the measure received bipartisan approval in the Senate but faced dual assignments to multiple House committees, complicating its progress. To circumvent this hurdle, Blackman permitted Bolick to amend one of his bills for a fresh opportunity.

During the recent hearing, some lawmakers expressed concerns regarding the bill’s harsh penalties and vague terms. Rep. Alexander Kolodin, R-Scottsdale, argued against placing animal welfare above human interests, stating, “This bill is cruel to a very different type of animal, and that would be human beings.”

Further criticisms came from Rep. Rachel Keshel, R-Tucson, who warned the bill’s language might unintentionally criminalize responsible pet owners facing financial hardships.

Despite opposition, Blackman urged lawmakers to prioritize constituents’ desires for the welfare of animals. “We do the job that people want us to do,” he stated. “They want to make sure that dogs are not being mistreated. What’s wrong with that?”