Bateman’s ‘Moose’s Law’ Prohibits Animal Abusers from Owning Pets

Legislation sponsored by Senator Kip Bateman to forbid convicted animal abusers from owning or working with pets has passed the New Jersey Senate.

“Moose’s Law” is named in memory of a New Jersey dog that was lured from his home property and killed at the hands of a supposed animal trainer.

“The monsters who commit atrocious animal abuses should not be allowed anywhere near pets, let alone be permitted to work with or own them,” said Bateman (R-16). “While animal abuse is already illegal in New Jersey, this measure expands and strengthens animal cruelty consequences and helps to ensure our furry friends are not unknowingly placed in the wrong hands. Protecting vulnerable pets from cruelty and mistreatment will save the lives of animal companions across the state.”

Bateman’s legislation, S-1258, provides that an owner of an animal-related enterprise may not employ or allow individuals to volunteer if they have been convicted of criminal animal cruelty offenses. Under the bill, the owner or operator of an enterprise may determine that a person does not have a criminal conviction by requesting and receiving in writing a determination by the Commissioner of Health that the person is not identified on the list of persons who are ineligible to be certified animal control officers.

“Alerting employers or pet shelters of high-risk potential employees will prevent offenders from repeating their malicious acts,” added Bateman. “Enacting ‘Moose’s Law’ is another important step in our mission to help eradicate animal abuse once and for all.”