Louisiana's Fate for Animal Abuse Offenders: A New Registry Bill!

A proposed bill in the Louisiana Legislature would create a statewide registry for individuals convicted of certain felony offenses involving animals.

House Bill 85, authored by Mike Bayham (R-Chalmette), would require registration for individuals convicted of specific felony crimes related to animal abuse and exploitation.

Under the bill, registration would apply to felony convictions involving:

• Sexual abuse of an animal
• Simple and aggravated cruelty to animals
• Dogfighting and the training or possession of dogs for fighting
• Injuring or killing of a police animal
• Cockfighting

The bill proposes that offenders who fail to register would face a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for no more than one year, with or without hard labor.

If enacted, the registry would be maintained by the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information, which would oversee its administration and enforcement.

Supporters say the registry would promote accountability and increase public awareness regarding serious animal-related crimes. The legislation remains under consideration during the current legislative session.

If approved, Louisiana would join other states that have established similar registries for individuals convicted of felony animal abuse offenses.