x
Breaking News
More () »

Tennessee considering bill that would ban animal abusers from owning pets

The bill would keep anyone convicted animal abuse or cruelty from owning a pet for at least two years.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Legislature is considering a bill that would prevent convicted animal abusers from owning a pet.

Rep. Darren Jernigan (D-Davidson County) filed House Bill 1643 for introduction on Tuesday.

The bill would amend Tennessee laws to prevent anyone convicted of animal cruelty, abuse or other offenses against animals from owning a companion animal for at least two years after their conviction.

RELATED: Tennessee lawmakers pass bill allowing agencies to deny adoptions on moral grounds

RELATED: Bill blog: What Tennessee lawmakers are talking about in 2020

Tennessee lawmakers have remained focused on curbing animal abuse in the state. In 2016, Tennessee became the first state in to formally establish an Animal Abuse Registry for people convicted of aggravated animal cruelty: specifically crimes 'sadistic and depraved' in nature against an animal, sex crimes involving an animal, or animal fighting.

RELATED: KPD investigating after dog thrown more than 29 feet off Alcoa Highway overpass overnight

RELATED: TN bill would decriminalize marijuana possession statewide, allow counties to vote on legalization

RELATED: TN considering bill that would require child sex offenders to undergo chemical castration for parole

Before You Leave, Check This Out