The Humane Society of the United States, the nation's largest animal protection organization, supports the use of citizens’ ballot initiatives after more traditional forms of policy reform have been exhausted, and when politicians and state regulators are unresponsive to citizens’ concerns.
North Dakota: Join the Coalition of North Dakotans to Stop Animal Cruelty
North Dakota is one of only three states that punishes even the most extreme forms of animal cruelty as a mere misdemeanor. Luckily, a coalition of North Dakota citizens, veterinarians, shelters, and rescues has come together to form North Dakotans to Stop Animal Cruelty.
North Dakotans to Stop Animal Cruelty is spearheading a ballot campaign to enact a meaningful animal cruelty law that reflects North Dakota values. This ballot measure would make the most extreme forms of cruelty a class C felony when inflicted upon a dog, cat, or horse.
The measure would also give judges the additional option of requiring that animal abusers receive psychological counseling and prohibiting them from owning a dog, cat, or horse for up to five years.
Join North Dakotans and animal advocates across the country in supporting North Dakotans to Stop Animal Cruelty.
Missouri: Did They Hear the Voters?
In spite of legislative refusal to heed the will of the people, Wayne Pacelle notes that the debate over puppy mills is not over in Missouri. Read more on Wayne's blog »
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