Minnesota 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. Tennessee maintains a statewide Animal Abuser Registry. Florida has enacted similar statewide protections. Local governments in other states have also adopted public registries requiring convicted offenders to register and restricting their ability to obtain animals.

Minnesota should not fall behind.

We are calling on the Minnesota Legislature and Governor Tim Walz 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 public safety, prevention, and responsible placement — not politics. It would help break cycles of abuse and ensure that animals are placed in safe, caring homes.

Minnesotans care deeply about animal welfare. It is time to strengthen our laws to reflect that commitment.

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