McCreery proposes to mandate abuse and neglect reporting

Missouri State Senator Tracy McCreery has filed a bill that mandates animal control officers and animal humane investigators to report cases of abuse and neglect of children, the elderly, and other vulnerable people. 

Additionally, a provision requires mandated reporting requirements for certain mental, educational, protective services, and law enforcement to report cases of companion animal abuse or neglect. 

Training would be required, under the St. Louis County Democrat’s bill, within the first 60 days of employment to recognize signs of abuse or neglect. 

Failure to report results in a written notice and possible disciplinary action by their professional licensing board, as well as a fine. 

The bill has been introduced and could be considered by a committee in the near future.