The Alaska House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill expanding legal protections for animals involved in domestic violence situations. The Senate will now consider the measure.
Supporters say even though the bill expands legal protections for animals in domestic violence situations, the real aim of the legislation is the provisions that give the human victims peace of mind.
Late Representative Max Gruenberg and Representative Liz Vazquez co-sponsored the bill. Vazquez said in a floor speech Thursday that victims who successfully obtain restraining orders would be able to include family pets in those court orders.
The bill also allows animals to be included in custody agreements during divorce and separation cases.
