HB1766 is deeply concerning legislation we have been actively monitoring and opposing. To read the bill in its entirety, click here.
Four reasons this legislation is dangerous:
- Cruelty investigations involving horses, ponies, bunnies and other companion farm animals would be stripped from humane societies and agents. Removing professionals with relevant training and experience will overwhelm municipalities, delay or prevent investigations, and leave animals suffering unseen, unheard and at risk of dying.
- This doesn’t impact just livestock… it puts all animals at risk. If livestock animals (including rabbits) are present on a property, HB1766 would prevent humane societies and humane agents from assisting in any investigation, including those involving dogs, cats, and other companions animals. That means fewer trained eyes on the scene, more missed warning signs, and more animals left to suffer.
- Even when humane experts are brought in, they may be barred from helping animals in crisis. If animals must be removed, the very humane societies involved in the case would be prohibited from housing them, even if they are the only safe option. Where are these animals supposed to go?
- Mandatory criminal charges will hurt the wrong people. This bill requires police to file cruelty charges in every seizure case. That means seniors, individuals struggling with mental illness, or people facing financial hardship could be criminalized instead of assisted
Facts about NHSPCA and cruelty/neglect cases:
- 85 towns/police departments, across the state, have sought our assistance in investigating cases.
- Responded to over 800 complaints received in 2025.
- Cases involved 5,600 animals, 326 of which were equines.
- We possess skills and experience to investigate and provide care that towns rarely have.
