State needs tougher laws banning animal cruelty

| March 11, 2009 9:00 PM

A $300 fine for starving a horse nearly to death is a travesty of justice. Animal cruelty laws for the state of Idaho must be changed from a violation being a misdemeanor to a felony. Stiffer fines and penalties must be initiated.

Only four states have no felony animal cruelty provisions: Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota and Mississippi.

For those of us who care, we can write, call or e-mail our state officials, voicing our opinions on the need to change the law.

Contact:

1. Attorney General Lawrence Wasden

700 West Jeffereson St.

P.O.Box 83720

Boise, Idaho 83720-0034

2. Shawn Keough

P.O. Box 101

Sandpoint, ID. 83864

263-1839

E-mail: skeough@senate.state.id.us

3. George Eskridge

P.O. Box 112

Dover, ID. 83825

265-0123

E-mail: geskridg@state.id.us

4. Eric Anderson

28544 Highway 57

Priest Lake, ID. 83856

265-6316

E-mail: eanderso@house.idaho.gov

5. Joyce Broadsword

P.O. Box 76

Cocolalla, 83813

Home: 263-7735

Work: 263-3250

Fax: 255-7714

GAIL HARMELIN

Sandpoint