| VETO MESSAGE ON SSB 5501 |
| May 11, 2015 |
| To the Honorable President and Members, |
| The Senate of the State of Washington |
| Ladies and Gentlemen: |
| I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 7, Substitute Senate Bill No. 5501 entitled: |
"AN ACT Relating to the prevention of animal cruelty." |
| Section 7, by expanding the exceptions for "accepted husbandry practices" used in commercial farming to noncommercial farming, could potentially leave livestock and other animals subject to neglect or cruelty. Contrary to the purpose of this bill, animal control officers and prosecutors will have more difficulty enforcing animal cruelty laws in cases involving backyard farming and hobby farms. |
| For these reasons I have vetoed Section 7 of Substitute Senate Bill No. 5501. |
| With the exception of Section 7, Substitute Senate Bill No. 5501 is approved. |
| Respectfully submitted, |
| Jay Inslee |
| Governor |