Utah lawmakers approve bill allowing domestic violence victims to include pets in protective orders

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ST. GEORGE — Legislation intended to help victims of domestic violence and their pets is on its way to becoming law in Utah.

On Feb. 17, both the House and Senate of the Utah State Legislature passed HB 175, a bill that enables victims of domestic violence to include their pets in domestic violence protective orders.

The Humane Society of Utah, Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering and state Rep. Angela Romero, the bill’s sponsor, combined efforts to help bring the legislation to fruition.

“We are thrilled the Utah Legislature understood the gravity of passing this bill, and what it means to pet families across our state,” Kristina Pulsipher of Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering said. “Survivors of domestic violence now have a path to leave their abuser, ensure their pets are protected, and take comfort in knowing there are now options in place to secure their safety. This statute will literally save lives.”

Nearly 50% of domestic violence victims have delayed leaving their abusers out of fear of harm to their pets, according to the Humane Society of Utah. Abusers often use violence or threats of violence against a victim’s pet as a psychological tool to manipulate and further control the victim.

“With the passage of H.B. 175, Utah is now the 37th state to offer these life-changing and life-saving protections,” Rachel Heatley, Director of Advocacy and Investigations for the Humane Society of Utah, said. “Our state just took a giant step forward in protecting domestic violence survivors and their pets.”

All of Southern Utah’s legislators voted in favor of the legislation. The bill now goes to the governor’s desk for signage into law.


Check out all of St. George News’ coverage of the 2022 Utah Legislature here.

For a complete list of contacts for Southern Utah representatives and senators, click here.

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