Ethan’s Law passes in Kentucky: A turning point for animal welfare advocacy

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — Just three years ago, Ethan was freezing to death in the parking lot at the Kentucky Humane Society in Louisville, his life hanging by a thread.

The abuse and torture he endured have sparked legislative change as Kentucky enacts Ethan’s Law, a measure aimed at bolstering animal welfare and holding abusers accountable.

In 2021, when Jeff Callaway first met Ethan, he said he would do anything to save his life.

“When I first saw him, my hope for him was just to live,” said Callaway. “And they kept saying he’s not going to make it; he’s not going to make it.”

Fast forward to 2024, and Ethan’s story has become a catalyst for legislative reform.

Ethan’s Law officially took effect this week, marked by a celebratory signing ceremony on Tuesday.

The legislation expands the legal definition of animal torture, now making it a felony on the first offense rather than a misdemeanor.

“It specifically requires the dog or cat to be restrained, which is a mandatory requirement to be defined as torture,” said Kentucky District 31 Rep. Susan Witten. “Another significant change is that torture is now a first offense felony, where before it was a second offense felony.”

The Animal Legal Defense Funds ranked Kentucky as one of the worst states for animal protection laws. Callaway said he’s now hopeful for the future.

“The animals don’t have a voice, and we’ve got to be that voice for them.”

Advocates believe Ethan’s Law will not only protect animals but also curb the potential domino effect of escalating crimes.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS

• Ethan’s Law passes in Kentucky: A turning point for animal welfare advocacy
• Boyle County man accused of shooting, killing cats with BB gun
• Colleague of late Father Norman Fischer looks back on their time together

“Long term, it really helps make the state of Kentucky safer,” said Callaway. “Those people who hurt animals usually go on to hurt people, and sometimes it’s the most vulnerable in the community, children or older folks.”

The enactment of Ethan’s Law marks a significant milestone for animal rights in Kentucky.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.