- April 25, 2024
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by: Amy Wade-Carotenuto
Director of Philanthropy and Activism, Flagler Humane Society
On June 18, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law C.S./S.B. 1082 which is a law pertaining to domestic violence injunctions. This law ensures that family pets can be included in orders of protection from domestic violence. The law goes into effect July 1 and will help protect vulnerable people and their pets across Florida.
The staff and volunteers at Flagler Humane Society worked with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to promote the importance of this legislation, and we would like to thank Gov. DeSantis, as well as Sen. Albritton, Rep. Killebrew, and Rep. David Silvers, for their sponsorship. Special thanks to our own local Rep. Paul Renner, who helped ensure the bill passed in his role as chair of the House Judiciary Committee.
Too often, those living in an abusive situation do not seek safety out of fear for what may happen to their pets. Research shows that nearly 90% of pet-owning women who enter domestic violence shelters report that their abusers threatened, harmed, or killed a family pet.
With an increase in financial hardships and the coronavirus quarantine, experts are concerned that we may also see a rise in domestic abuse. This law helps ensure that pet owners in crisis can more readily find safety for themselves, their children and their pets. Please join us in thanking our Legislature and governor for enacting this important legislation.
