PHOENIX -- In a bid to strengthen animal protection laws, Arizona legislators have reintroduced a bill that clarifies animal cruelty, neglect and mistreatment. Advocates say the bill’s clear definitions will help educate the public on proper animal care and strengthen law enforcement’s ability to address cruelty cases.
Senate Bill 1658, formerly SB 1234, specifies the actions and conditions that constitute animal cruelty. The proposed bill revises the definition of “cruel neglect,� setting clearer standards for providing food, water and shelter.
U.S. District Court Judge Douglas Rayes signed an order last week dismissing the lawsuit filed by a Phoenix obstetrician and gynecologist and others who challenged a 2021 statute making it illegal to perform an abortion because of fetal defects. Read moreLawsuit over abortions for fetal defects finally dismissed
Legislation would make it illegal to release or dispense intentionally by any means "any chemical, chemical compound, substance or apparatus" within AZ designed for "solar radiation management." Read moreAZ lawmakers seek to end practice of 'geoengineering'
The impacts are already being seen at the 63 parks and 370 other sites managed and maintained by the Park Service: longer lines at entrances, reduced hours at visitor centers, canceled tours with park rangers and fewer trained staff to help with maintenance issues and emergencies. Read moreWorkforce cuts raise concerns over national park upkeep