Bill beefing up animal cruelty law moves ahead

Those who terrorise animals in Iowa would be subject to tougher penaltiesunder a bill which cleared a Senate panel today. Senator David Miller, arepublican from Libertyville, says those found guilty of torturing an animalwould face up to two years in prison — and pay a fine of up to five-thousand dollars.Calls for tougher penalties came after dozens of cats were killed at aFairfield Animal Shelter. Previous versions of the bill dealt with animalcruelty, but Miller says by focusing on the term “torture” — the concernsof some farmers have been allayed.If the bill becomes law, a second conviction of animal torture would bringeven more prison time.Miller, who’s a lawyer, is also a farmer.