HARRISBURG — Four bills sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin (R-49) advanced from Senate committees today, addressing animal cruelty, support for community clubs, private property rights and fishing regulations.
“Each of these bills responds to a real concern raised by Pennsylvanians,” Laughlin said. “From holding animal abusers accountable to protecting property owners and supporting the clubs that serve our communities, I’m pleased to see this legislation moving forward.”
Senate Bill 1311, Aimee’s Law, would establish a publicly accessible registry for people convicted of qualifying animal abuse offenses. The bill is named for Aimee, a six-month-old husky found abandoned beneath a bridge in Erie during sub-zero temperatures. Despite efforts to save her, she died from her injuries. The Pennsylvania State Police would maintain the registry.
Senate Bill 465 would change how licensed clubs distribute proceeds from small games of chance. It would allow clubs to retain up to 50% of those proceeds for operating expenses while requiring at least 50% to be used for public interest purposes. Current law sets those shares at 40% and 60%, respectively.
Senate Bill 1431 would require Pennsylvania Game Commission officers to obtain a warrant before entering private property, unless a judicially recognized exception applies. The measure is intended to strengthen protections against warrantless searches while preserving officers’ ability to act under established legal exceptions.
Senate Bill 1213 would clarify the Fish and Boat Commission’s authority to regulate methods of taking fish through snatching, foul hooking or snagging. Violations of regulations issued under the bill would be a first-degree summary offense.
“These measures cover different issues, but they share a practical goal: addressing gaps in the law that affect people across Pennsylvania,” Laughlin said. “I look forward to continuing the work to move them through the Senate.”
The bills now await further consideration by the full Senate.
CONTACT: Chris Carroll | Phone: 814-453-2515