Introduced by Torres, Ind.-Saipan, House Bill 17-35 aims “to improve the quality of life for humans and animals alike.”
It proposes to impose a $500 fine and up to six months imprisonment on those who will hurt or neglect an animal.
It will also impose a $250 fine on anyone who abandons or deserts an animal.
Those who will commit these misdemeanors for the second time will be fined $1,000.
But the bill allows the humane disposal of abandoned, unintended, emaciated and diseased animals.
But 12 of the 20 House members, including Speaker Eli D. Cabrera, R-Saipan ,wanted the measure returned to the House Judiciary and Governmental Operations Committee.
Cabrera said there are people who believe that the bill is being too restrictive and somehow steps on local people’s “culture.”
House Floor Leader George N. Camacho, Ind.-Saipan, said many members want the bill to have more “clarity.”
“We all agree that we should be humane to animals. The other members just want clarity about some issues like cockfighting,” he added.
Camacho said some members think cockfighting is cruel while some think it is part of NMI culture.
The bill will not prohibit cockfighting.
House Minority Leader Diego T. Benavente, R-Saipan, said he wanted the bill to be on the calendar so they could discuss it and make necessary changes.
Torres told his colleagues that if the bill would be referred to the committee he would officially withdraw as its author.
“I want the House to act on it, vote to either pass or reject it. But if they will recommit that [to committee], I don’t want to be part of it anymore,” he said.
