Senator Dan Laughlin has announced that a new legislation known as “Aimee’s Law.” This legislation would create a publicly accessible registry that showcases those convicted of felony animal abuse offenses.
Erie News Now had been continuously covering the story of Aimee, the frostbitten husky and the legislation was inspired by her tragic story.
“This heartbreaking case shows the urgent need for stronger accountability for those who commit cruel acts against animals,” said Senator Laughlin. “No animal should suffer as Aimee did. Aimee’s Law will give communities a tool to prevent repeat offenses and protect both animals and the people around them.”
Under Aimee’s Law those convicted of animal cruelty or aggravated cruelty to animals will be required to provide their record on a publicly accessible registry. The registry provides more transparency so another case like Aimee’s can be avoided. The support for penalties of these crimes from law enforcement will also be increased.
“Animals can’t speak for themselves,” Laughlin added. “A publicly searchable registry gives families, neighbors, and authorities a critical tool to recognize dangerous patterns and prevent future tragedies. Aimee’s death should not be in vain.”
Other states have passed similar legislatures that have strengthened the penalties for animal related crimes in Florida where Dexter’s Law had been passed in 2025.
“States like Florida have shown that this approach works,” Laughlin said. “Aimee’s Law will fill an urgent gap in Pennsylvania’s laws, hold offenders accountable, and protect our communities and our pets.”
The public has been encouraged to support the new legislature as it continues through the legislative process.