Sharon Harmon directs the Oregon Humane Society. We like the idea that animals have value as companions and when owners lose that companionship are entitled to compensation. However, Harmon worries that some provisions of the bill would make Humane Society liable for euthanizing unadoptable pets. Ranchers are also concerned about any bill that would inhibit their ability to shoot dogs that chase livestock. And insurance companies worry they'd have to pay out thousands in claims.
Lawmakers appear likely to appoint a group to work out a compromise.
But those efforts may be eclipsed by a bill to create the crime of sexual assault against an animal. It's sponsored by Salem Democrat Peter Courtney, who's heard many snickers from colleagues about the bestiality bill. He and the chair of the committee, John Minnis, have gotten requests for interviews with Hustler magazine. This is egregious and we need to make a statement through legislation that we don't want to tolerate it. The effort to curb animal abuse also stems from evidence that violence against animals is a precursor to violence against people.