Gov. Gavin Newsom Signs Bill to Help Abused and Neglected Animals in Shelters

Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 2344, a legislation aimed at aiding abused and neglected animals held in municipal shelters during their owners’ criminal proceedings. The bill, introduced by Assemblymember Matt Haney from San Francisco, identifies animals seized in cruelty cases as ‘abandoned,’ thus enabling their adoption or placement in foster homes.

The need for such a bill stems from the practice of treating these animals as ‘evidence’ in ongoing criminal cases, which often results in long periods of waiting. These animals might spend several months in shelters as court cases progress. A 2022 investigation by the Times reported that dogs seized due to abuse or neglect were confined to kennels and denied exercise while awaiting the resolution of their cases.

One case in point is a dog named Bruce, who was kept in a shelter for seven months after his owner attacked him. Bruce was unable to engage in regular walks or yard time due to his status as evidence.

The legislation was sponsored by Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, along with advocacy group Social Compassion in Legislation. The bill aims to close existing legal loopholes by allowing animals seized without a warrant to be considered abandoned after 14 days. This enables shelters to proceed with adoption or fostering strategies.

Special Assistant District Attorney Daniel Felizzatto points out that evidence animals in Los Angeles County shelters can remain for durations ranging from three months to nearly a year. Felizzatto highlights that unnecessary sheltering of animals is both bad public and fiscal policy, costing approximately $35,550 annually to care for a single animal.

Felizzatto has expressed concerns about prolonged confinement of animals leading to behavioral issues that complicate adoption processes. These animals, deprived of proper care and interaction, often suffer mental and physical decline, increasing the risk of euthanasia.

Assemblymember Haney’s statement emphasizes the need to remove obstacles in recovering these animals promptly. ‘Animal cruelty is unacceptable,’ Haney asserts, adding that AB 2344 will provide an efficient means for courts and shelters to facilitate the transfer of animals into suitable care environments.