Bill would protect animals in domestic violence situations

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – A state House committee plans to hear legislation spelling out protections for animals caught in messy split-ups between couples.

The bill has broad bipartisan support in the House. It would amend state laws to require owners to pay for the cost of care for animals seized in neglect cases, allow courts to include animals in domestic violence protection orders and lay out custody agreements for pets during divorce cases.

Anchorage Democratic Rep. Max Gruenberg, a family practice lawyer, sponsored the bill. He says he has had judges sign off on agreements on what to do with...