HARRISBURG – The Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20), this week advanced legislation that would provide additional protection for domestic violence survivors and their companion animals.
House Bill 1210 would give judges explicit authority to award temporary custody of a companion animal as part of a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order.
“For many survivors, pets are a crucial part of their support system,” said Baker. “When a survivor feels forced to relinquish their pet to escape violence, they often lose an important source of emotional support during the recovery process. By protecting these animals, we are helping empower survivors to make decisions that prioritize their well-being and the well-being of their loved ones – human and animal alike.”
Wyoming County District Attorney Joseph Peters expressed his support for the legislation. “My office recognizes and encounters the repercussions of Pennsylvania being one of the few states that doesn’t allow companion animals to be included on PFA Orders,” Peters said. “Abusers often use family pets as leverage in tormenting their victims, threatening to harm or kill the pet if the victim leaves.”
If enacted, Pennsylvania will join 38 states and the District of Columbia in recognizing the importance of including pets in protection order laws. It now heads to the full Senate for consideration.
CONTACT: Cara Laudenslager