Hatfield receives Humane Legislator of the Year Award for animal advocacy

INDIANAPOLIS - State Representative Ryan Hatfield (D-Evansville) today received the Humane Legislator of the Year Award from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) during the 2020 Humane Lobby Day.

Hatfield received this award for his legislation passed last session, House Bill 1615, that strengthens Indiana’s animal cruelty laws. 

House Bill 1615 passed unanimously through the House last session and raised base penalties for crimes such as abandoning or abusing an animal and prohibits an animal control program, animal shelter or humane society from killing an animal by any means other than humane euthanasia.

“It is an honor to receive this award from the Humane Society of the United States, an organization known for being at the forefront of animal-rights issues across the nation,” said Hatfield.

“I was thrilled to see House Bill 1615 (P.L. 141-2019) signed into law last year. It is common sense legislation meant to protect both animals and Hoosiers,” continued Hatfield. “This legislation is a step in the right direction and I hope to see Indiana continue down this path towards a safer Indiana for all.”

Each year, the Humane Society of the United States awards one legislator from each state with the Legislator of the Year Award for their efforts to make a difference in the lives of animals.