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Hinkle’s bill to punish
people who kill or harm horses and
cattle passes out of the House
13th District legislator also touts other
legislative successes before House cut-off
A person who intentionally
kills or harms a horse or cattle without consent of the owner could face
an unranked class B felony under a bill that passed the Washington State
House of Representatives today.
House Bill 1775 would carry a standard sentence of up to 12 months
in jail.
Rep. Bill Hinkle, R-Cle Elum, is the prime sponsor of the
measure.
“It is a sad occasion that we would even have to consider such a bill.
To think there are people out there capable of such crimes is pathetic.
Yet we continue to hear stories that show these crimes are being
committed. It is important we send a message to certain misguided people
that we will not tolerate the killing or harming of valuable livestock
around our state,” said Hinkle. “This measure is also important
because it would allow the livestock owner to bring civil action for
damages and attorneys’ fees. These animals often represent the
livelihood for people in rural communities and it’s important they are
made whole when a crime is committed.”
House Bill 1775 would not apply in the industrial context of
slaughterhouses or meatpacking facilities. The measure passed on a 95-2
vote and is now headed to the Washington State Senate.
Hinkle cites other successful bills he supported that passed off
the House floor today.
House Bill 1379 would allow applicants for a hearing instrument
fitter/dispenser license to satisfy the education requirements if they
are licensed in another state, have been practicing in that state, and
have completed an advanced certification.
House Bill 1403 would remove the registration requirement for
snowmobiles that are owned or transported but not operated in
Washington.
Hinkle can be contacted at (360) 786-7808 or
hinkle.bill@leg.wa.gov.
For more information on Hinkle visit:
http://www.houserepublicans.wa.gov/Hinkle/
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