Pet disaster defense bill dies

A proposed law to fine pet owners who tie up their animals during natural disasters including floods, hurricanes and tropical storms failed to gain favor in a Senate committee Tuesday. 
 
Sen. J.P. Morrell, D-New Orleans, said Senate Bill 402 came after pets being tied up during recent flooding that devastated parts of Louisiana prompted backlash from animal rights groups. 
 
“We have a big problem across the state right now with flooding,” Morrell said. 
 
The measure would assess a $300 fine to those who chain their pets after the National Weather Service issued a warning for flash floods, hurricanes or tropical storms. Morrell clarified his bill would not ban tethering altogether, and would only apply if the pets are tied up when those warnings are in effect. 
 
The bill died on a 3-2 vote. 
Sen. Dan Claitor, R-Baton Route, opposed Morrell’s proposal, insisting the law already is on the books. 
 
Another proposal by Morrell that would ensure the prosecution for theft of pets passed through the Senate Judiciary C Committee on a 3-2 vote, even though Claitor again maintained that law, too, already was in place. 
 
The thief could be charged with a felony if the animal is valuable enough.
 
“Sometimes law enforcement needs a little help reminding that theft of animals is a thing,” Morrell said.