Arizona lawmakers have already considered legislation to create a statewide Animal Abuser Registry — but it did not pass.

That effort would have required individuals convicted of certain animal cruelty offenses to register and would have created a searchable system to help shelters and rescues identify known offenders.

The idea was simple: prevent repeat abuse by ensuring transparency.

Arizona does not currently have a statewide animal abuser registry. Without one, shelters and rescues may unknowingly place animals with individuals who have prior convictions for cruelty.

Other states have implemented registries to address this gap. Washington maintains a statewide registry. Utah operates an Animal Cruelty Offender Registry. These systems are designed to protect animals and assist law enforcement and adoption agencies.

Arizona should revisit and pass legislation establishing a statewide Animal Abuser Registry that:

• Requires convicted animal abusers to register for a defined period;
• Prohibits listed individuals from adopting or purchasing animals;
• Makes registry information available to shelters and humane organizations;
• Supports enforcement and prevention efforts statewide.

We are calling on the Arizona Legislature and Governor Katie Hobbs to reintroduce and pass Animal Abuser Registry legislation in the next session.

Protecting animals from repeat abuse is not a partisan issue. It is a matter of accountability and prevention.

Sign this petition to urge Arizona lawmakers to pass a statewide Animal Abuser Registry.