A bill recently introduced in Maine would create a statewide “animal abuser registry.” The proposal, LD 1289, sponsored by Representative Elizabeth Dickerson (D-Rockland), would require any adult that has violated Maine’s animal cruelty laws or a similar law from another state to register with the county where the person lives for 15 years. If passed, it would require registration for even the most minor violations of the animal cruelty laws – something most felons and other criminals are not required to do.
Under the registry, individuals would have to provide extensive and detailed personal information when registering with the county sheriff’s office. The county sheriff would then be required to photograph, take a description of the person, and notify all residents, schools, humane societies, and animal rescues within a ½ mile radius giving them the “animal abuser’s” information and location.
“This bill is a prime example of just how far animal rights organizations are willing to go to push their radical agenda,” said Evan Heusinkveld, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Director of Government Affairs. “This bill has been heard and fully rejected before in Maine and lawmakers should once again reject this ill-conceived measure.”
LD 1289 is currently pending in the Joint Committee on Criminal Justice and Safety.
Take Action! Maine sportsmen should contact their state representatives and ask them to vote NO on LD 1289. Visit USSA’s Legislative Action Center to find your state representative’s contact information.