Michigan has laws against animal cruelty — but it does not currently have a statewide Animal Abuser Registry.

Without a centralized system, shelters and rescues may not have an easy way to verify whether someone seeking to adopt an animal has a prior conviction for abuse. That gap puts vulnerable animals at risk.

Other states have recognized this problem and taken action by creating statewide registries that require convicted offenders to register and restrict their ability to obtain animals. These systems help close loopholes and give animal welfare organizations better tools to protect the pets in their care.

Michigan should not fall behind.

We are calling on the Michigan Legislature and Governor Gretchen Whitmer to pass legislation creating a statewide Animal Abuser Registry that:

• Requires individuals convicted of felony animal cruelty to register;
• Prohibits registrants from adopting, purchasing, or harboring animals;
• Provides accessible information to shelters and humane organizations;
• Allocates fines to support animal welfare and prevention efforts.

This proposal is about prevention and responsible placement — not politics. It would help break cycles of abuse and ensure that animals are placed in safe, caring homes.

Michiganders care deeply about their pets. Dogs and cats are family members in homes across our state. It is time to strengthen our laws to reflect that commitment.

Sign this petition to urge Michigan lawmakers to create a statewide Animal Abuser Registry and protect animals across our communities.