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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Full legislative history
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Total actions
2
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0
Committee
0
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Jamie Burger
RRepublican
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