LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Reba's Law, a state bill meant to add harsher penalties for animal cruelty in Nevada, has been revived.
WATCH | Nevada lawmakers revive Reba's Law in the state legislature
Friday marked the legislature's deadline for a number of bills in consideration for this session, but to the shock of many animal advocates, Assembly Bill 381 never advanced before the deadline. For all intents and purposes, the bill was dead.
On Monday, that action changed. A waiver was granted for Reba's Law, allowing state lawmakers to amend the bill and move it through the Assembly Judiciary.
Assemblymember Brittney Miller, D-Clark County, and chair of the Assembly Judiciary said on Monday that her committee is working on amendments to AB381 to pass a "more robust version of Reba's Law" for Nevadans.
Locals may remember last July when "Reba," an English bulldog, was found taped in a plastic tote bin during the extreme heat season in Las Vegas. Despite rescuers best efforts, Reba died from her injuries. Months later, two suspects were arrested and charged.
The case garnered so much public outcry—from advocates, residents, and even local officials—that it prompted state lawmakers to introduce AB381.
WATCH | Clark County's top prosecutor calls for harsher animal cruelty penalties in Nevada
Following the announcement of the bill's revival, an advocacy group for Reba's Law sent Channel 13 this statement:
Melissa Hardy, who was the primary sponsor of this bill sought to hold those accountable that continue to harm and kill animals. When we learned on Friday night that the Judiciary Committee had killed this bill we were appalled. We then started a campaign of our own to hold our legislators accountable. We are grateful that they heard our demands and have brought this bill back to life. Now let's get it across the finish line and hold the individuals responsible that continue to harm our fur babies.
