‘Ethan’s Act’ would strengthen animal torture laws in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A bill circulating through the Kentucky House right now aims to bring harsher punishments for those who abuse animals.

House Bill 258, better known as Ethan’s Act, is looking to increase the penalty for those found guilty of torturing dogs or cats.

The bill would specify what torturing an animal means.

In this case, it’s defined as situations where extreme physical pain results from restraint, such as being sealed in a plastic bag or box or being locked in a cage or kennel for an extended period.

If the bill passes, each act of torture on a cat or dog would be charged as a separate offense, with all charges being a class felony.