Guadalajara, Jalisco – In a significant step towards animal welfare, the Jalisco State Congress has approved a reform imposing harsher penalties for those found guilty of animal abuse. The new legislation aims to address the growing concern over the mistreatment of animals in the region.
According to reports, animal cruelty is a pervasive problem in Mexico, with millions of animals affected each year. Common forms of abuse include neglect, starvation, torture and abandonment. To combat this issue, the Congress has increased the potential punishments for offenders in Jalisco.
Under the new law, penalties will vary based on the severity of the crime. While less severe cases could result in fines and short prison sentences, those who cause permanent harm or death to animals face significantly harsher consequences. For example, individuals who abandon or neglect animals could face substantial fines and up to four years in prison. In the most extreme cases, where the death of the animal is caused, the penalties can reach 3 to 5 years in prison and fines that vary between 21,714 and 108,570 pesos.
Yussara Canales, a Morena deputy and proponent of the reform, urged citizens to report instances of animal abuse to the Prosecutor’s Office. “With these sanctions,” she stated, “the State Congress seeks to strengthen the protection of animal rights and promote greater awareness about the welfare of other species.”
The passage of this legislation marks a positive development in the fight against animal cruelty in Jalisco. As the state continues to implement these stricter measures, it is hoped that they will serve as a deterrent to potential offenders and lead to improved conditions for animals throughout the region.
