A bill that toughens North Dakota’s animal cruelty laws has passed the North Dakota Legislature.
It includes a felony charge for severe acts of animal cruelty. North Dakota was one of two states that did not have a felony penalty.
The bill has been worked on by a coalition of humane and agriculture groups.
"We're very pleased we have a comprehensive rewrite of the existing statute," said North Dakota Stockmen's Association vice president Julie Ellingson. "It works very hard to protect animals, as well as protect those who care for them, such as animal stewards, farmers and ranchers."
Last fall, voters rejected a ballot measure that would make certain acts of cruelty against cats, dogs and horses felonies.
The bill now goes to Governor Dalrymple for his signature.