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2007 Oregon Legislative Session

Humane Investigators' Fate in Governor's Hands

Because Oregon lawmakers left Salem this summer without passing new legislation for animal cruelty investigators, it’s now up to Gov. Ted Kulongoski to keep these special law enforcement agents at work. With the help of animal supporters across the state, SB 406 passed the Oregon Senate and House Judiciary Committee. But the full House failed to vote on the bill before adjourning.

The legislation would have ended the practice of commissioning agents under a vague, out-dated law and would have clarified their responsibilities and their relationships with other law enforcement agencies. The three agents employed by OHS were commissioned by the Kulongoski, but their commissions expire in September.

“I want to personally thank the hundreds of people who contacted their legislators about this bill and pushed it into the spotlight. This battle highlighted a very important issue for Oregonians, and it’s now up to Gov. Kulongoski to renew the commission of these agents under the old law, as outdated as it may be,” said Sharon Harmon, OHS Executive Director.

Last year, OHS investigated 813 animal cruelty complaints involving over 3,000 animals, and seized or removed from premises 310 animals. Their work is supported entirely through private donations to OHS.

To support the work of OHS Humane Investigators, you can donate on-line to the OHS Animal Investigations Fund.