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I was also thrilled to stumble across this
tidbit: Maine passed legislation in March of this year allowing animals to be
included in protection orders in domestic violence cases. It seems that
many men who abuse wives or girlfriends threaten or harm their animals to coerce
or control the women. (Kudos to Maine!!!!)
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/trusts_estates_prof/new_legislation/index.html VERMONT TOO! We got right on that directly after Maine had their success, and we got it approved in Vermont within a couple of months! We ROCK! I don't know why anyone lives anywhere else...? May 26, 2006
The Humane Society of the United States and The Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence today applauded Governor Jim Douglas for signing into law H. 373, an Act Relating to Orders Against Stalking or Sexual Assault. The law creates new protection orders for survivors of sexual assault and stalking perpetrated by people who aren't family or household members. The law also makes important changes to existing Abuse Prevention Orders available through Vermont's Family Courts. One critical change will allow judges to include pets in protective orders for persons seeking protection from abuse. Vermont is the second state behind Maine to provide specific legal protection for animals who often are at risk of violence at the hands of batterers. Maine Governor John Baldacci signed his state's bill earlier this year. New York and Illinois have introduced similar bills. "Violence to pets is often a tactic used by batterers to instill fear in and control over their victims," said Joanne Bourbeau, director of The HSUS New England Regional Office in Jacksonville. "Victims of domestic violence may be reluctant to leave an abusive relationship for fear of retaliation upon their pets. This legislation will give an extra layer of protection to domestic violence victims who are seeking safety for themselves and their animals." H. 373.represents a compromise reached in conference committee by the Vermont House and Senate, and was passed by both chambers on May 9. Phaewryn Please adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!! http://ucat.us/adopt.html
Low cost Spay&Neuter services in VT, and Emergency Financial Assistance for cat owners: http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html Special Needs Cat Resources: http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html The Sofa Poem: http://ucat.us/sofapoem.html Please shop online through i-give and support the Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program: http://www.igive.com/FVEAP Shop at GREAT stores, like Drs. Foster & Smith, Pet Food Direct, Musician's Friend, and LOTS more! It doesn't cost you a single penny more, and it makes so much difference to a sick cat in need! |
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