Animal abuse registry passes Senate

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A bill to create an animal abuse database in Texas passed the Senate Tuesday night 25-5. However, a last-minute amendment to HB 1103 made sure the database – similar to the state's sex offender registry – only be available to police.

In addition to the registry, animal cruelty offenders must attend a responsible pet owner class. Some people would not be allowed to adopt pets either.

The bill would require people convicted of cruelty to animals, attacks on an assistance animal, cruelty to livestock, and dogfighting to be listed on the registry, which would be managed by the Department of Public Safety.

Critics in the Senate argue the bill is too harsh for people convicted of animal cruelty as opposed to sex offenders.

KXAN covered the idea for this registry significantly since last fall, when lawmakers first started working with animal advocacy groups. Law enforcement was generally on board.

Monday marks the end of the regular session, and HB 1103 must now return to the House for final approval. A similar Senate bill was left pending in committee.