Senate Approves Bill for Appointment of Humane Society Police Officers

 

HARRISBURG -- Legislation clarifying the jurisdiction, appointment and accountability of Pennsylvania's Humane Society police officers gained final approval in the General Assembly today, according to the bill's sponsor, Sen. Noah Wenger (R-36).

 

Senate Bill 871 further defines the jurisdiction of Humane Society police officers by requiring that all officers be appointed to perform their duties in any county in which they will be working.  Officers will continue to have the authority to enforce the state's animal cruelty provisions, but only after securing appointment in a county.

 

"Requiring officers to be appointed in each county will help Humane Society police officers to better understand the specific issues facing that area," said Wenger.  "This knowledge will then help officers to better serve their counties."

 

A Humane Society may petition the court of common pleas for an individual's appointment as an officer.  Officers must meet the requirements for appointment outlined in the bill, including one year of Pennsylvania residency and completion of mandatory training and continuing education.

 

Senate Bill 871 includes provisions for greater accountability of Humane Society police officers as well.  Any grievance against an officer may be filed in the county court of common pleas, and that court will have the power to suspend, revoke, limit or restrict an appointment in the county.  The legislation establishes penalties for anyone convicted of impersonating an officer.

 

"The majority of Humane Society police officers uphold the integrity of their position and even exceed our expectations with the work they do," said Wenger. " However, we still need to hold those who choose not to conduct themselves in a professional manner responsible for their actions."