Senate bill aims to stop animal abusers from adopting pets

LEE COUNTY, Fla. - A new bill could bring consequences for those who harm animals. Senate Bill 1004 aims to create a statewide registry for individuals who violate animal cruelty laws.

This bill is similar to the Lee County Sheriff's Office animal abuse registry. It would list offenders to prevent them from adopting animals again.

Gloria, a cat who suffered severe abuse, is helping raise awareness about animal cruelty. Erin Tansey from HEAL Rescue shared Gloria's story, explaining how she was once severely injured but has now found a loving home.

Tansey has fostered nearly 100 cats over six years and says abused cats like Gloria often struggle to find homes. "I've been trying to work on with her, to get her to trust hands again and know that they're good," said Tansey.

The people who hurt Gloria were never caught. Senate Bill 1004 aims to prevent future offenders from adopting animals.

Tansey believes more awareness is needed about animal cruelty. "It really does affect the animal and then it affects the people that don't want to adopt those animals because of their challenges," she said.

The bill also targets puppy mills.