AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi
A new Kentucky state law will offer more protection for pets and domestic animals from those who might try to steal them.
Kentucky House Bill 301 makes it illegal for anyone to remove an animal’s identification tag, ID chip or locater, or any electronic device used to track a domesticated animal.
Violation of the law is a Class A misdemeanor, which could result in a prison sentence of 90 days or more and a fine of up to $500.
The law does allow the identification device to be removed without penalty if it is necessary to prevent an injury or treat an injury in an animal or if a law enforcement or animal control officer deems it necessary to remove the tag for “a legitimate purpose”. The tag can also be removed with the written permission of the animal’s owner.
The law was signed by Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear and became effective this week.
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