SB 655 Missouri Senate · 2025 Regular Session

Modifies provisions relating to abuse and neglect reporting, including a requirement to report companion animal abuse

SB 655 requires certain professionals who work with elderly adults - such as healthcare workers, home health aides, animal control officers, and senior care facility staff - to report suspected abuse of companion animals (pets). It adds pet abuse to the list of mandatory reports under existing elder abuse laws, requiring immediate reporting when professionals have reasonable cause to suspect it. The bill also mandates one hour of training for these workers within 60 days of hire, covering how to identify pet abuse, make reports, and understand its link to elder abuse. This directly affects staff at hospitals, senior care facilities, and animal welfare organizations that interact with vulnerable adults.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 29, 2025 Last action Mar 24, 2025
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P
Photo of Jamie Burger
Jamie Burger
RRepublican
MO
27