Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Natalie Mihalek has announced the signing of a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing protections for pets in domestic violence situations into law. This legislation amends Pennsylvania's Protection from Abuse Act, enabling judges to order defendants to refrain from possessing, abusing, or harming the petitioner's companion animal.

Previously, the act allowed judges to order various forms of relief to prevent further abuse but lacked explicit authority regarding victims' pets. "Studies and statistics show a clear connection between domestic violence and animal abuse," Mihalek stated. She emphasized that abusers often target pets to intimidate or control their human victims.

The Humane Society of the United States highlights data showing that many animals are targeted by those who also abuse children or spouses. A survey indicated that 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also targeted pets. Research suggests that coercive control often involves threats against family pets as leverage over victims.

House Bill 1210, spearheaded by Mihalek and Rep. Christina Sappey, took nearly four years to finalize. It passed the House in 2023, cleared the Senate earlier this month, and was signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro this week.

"As a former county prosecutor," Mihalek noted, "I have seen cases where a pet is used to manipulate victims." She expressed hope that the new legislation will help remove significant barriers preventing victims from seeking safety and justice.

This development aligns Pennsylvania with 37 other states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico in extending similar protections for pets in domestic violence cases.