Louisiana Proposes Registry for Animal Abuse Felons

New bill aims to track offenders convicted of certain animal-related crimes.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Louisiana legislature is considering a new bill that would create a statewide registry for people convicted of felonies involving animals. The proposed registry would cover convictions related to animal cruelty, bestiality, and other serious offenses against animals, with failure to register resulting in fines and potential jail time.

Why it matters

The bill is intended to help track repeat offenders and prevent further abuse, as research has shown links between crimes against animals and other violent behaviors. Animal welfare advocates argue a registry could improve accountability and protect both animals and the public.

The details

House Bill 85, authored by state Rep. Mike Bayham (R-Chalmette), would require registration for convictions of felony offenses including animal cruelty, bestiality, and other serious crimes involving animals. Offenders who fail to register would face up to a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail. The Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information would be responsible for maintaining the registry.

  • The Louisiana legislature is currently considering House Bill 85.

The players

Mike Bayham

A Republican state representative from Chalmette, Louisiana who authored House Bill 85 to create an animal abuse offender registry.

Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information

The state agency that would be tasked with maintaining the proposed animal abuse offender registry.

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What’s next

If passed, the bill would establish the animal abuse offender registry, which would require convicted felons to register with the state.

The takeaway

This proposed registry aims to increase accountability and prevent repeat offenses by tracking individuals convicted of serious crimes against animals, reflecting growing awareness of the links between animal abuse and other violent behaviors.