News, Action, and Updates

Those elected to office will determine what bills for animal protection and welfare move forward at local, state, and federal levels.

• STATE BILL: OFFICE OF ANIMAL PROTECTION

The Office of Animal Protection bill (MNOAP), SF 3542/HF 3799, will be re-introduced at the MN Legislature in 2025. Learn more and take action in support at: www.mnoap.org

• STATE BILL: COMPANION ANIMAL BOARD

The Companion Animal Board bill (SF1136/HF1168) will provide the necessary expertise for pet welfare and pet issues in Minnesota. Learn more and take action in preparation for 2025: CAB bill

• LOCAL ORDINANCE: WINONA COUNTY PUPPY MILLS

The Winona County Board voted to keep moving the legal process forward on the puppy mill issue (ban future kennel permits and create new licensing for existing kennels). Stay informed for next steps at: www.speakupwinonacounty.org

• THE LINK: ANIMAL-HUMAN VIOLENCE

Cruelty to animals can be linked to violence against humans, such as child abuse, elder abuse, and domestic violence. Learn: The Link

• JUDGE'S BENCHBOOK: ANIMAL CRUELTY CHAPTER

A chapter on Minnesota animal cruelty laws and legal precedent is now a part of the Judges Criminal Benchbook. Learn more.

• ANIMAL CRUELTY REPORTING - VETERINARIANS

MN-licensed veterinarians are mandated reporters of animal cruelty. For data specific to Minnesota veterinarians and their reporting role, refer to: Veterinarian Manual - Reporting Animal Cruelty

• VICTIM ADVOCACY: ANIMAL CRUELTY TOOLS

Mental health practitioners, social workers, victim advocates, and others may witness animal cruelty. Learn more: Resources

• MATERIALS: LAW ENFORCEMENT

With criminal justice partners, Animal Folks has created materials for use by law enforcement in animal cruelty cases. Training and Forms

• TRAINING: Senior Veterinary Students

Animal Folks conducts training about animal cruelty to senior veterinary students at the University of Minnesota. Learn more.

• INITIATIVE: GO HUMANE, BLAINE!

A humane pet store ordinance is needed in the city of Blaine to stop the sale of puppy mill puppies in pet stores. Learn more at Go Humane!

MAKING A JUST WORLD FOR ANIMALS