Luzerne Times

The Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced a bill aimed at providing additional protection for domestic violence survivors and their pets. Chaired by Sen. Lisa Baker, the committee moved forward with House Bill 1210, which seeks to grant judges the authority to award temporary custody of companion animals as part of a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order.

Sen. Baker emphasized the significance of pets in the lives of survivors, stating, "For many survivors, pets are a crucial part of their support system." She noted that when survivors feel compelled to give up their pets to escape violence, they lose an essential source of emotional support during recovery. "By protecting these animals," she added, "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 also voiced his backing for the bill. He pointed out that Pennsylvania is one of the few states where companion animals cannot be included in PFA Orders. Peters stated, "Abusers often use family pets as leverage in tormenting their victims, threatening to harm or kill the pet if the victim leaves."

If passed into law, Pennsylvania would join 38 other states and the District of Columbia in recognizing the importance of including pets in protection order laws. The bill now awaits consideration by the full Senate.