News and Public Media for North Central Florida

Florida Senate Passes Bill To Allow Therapy Animals In Court

Bella, a 2-month-old therapy dog in training, in December. The Florida Senate on Thursday gave the thumbs-up to allow such dogs in court for children testifying in abuse, abandonment and neglect cases, sending the bill to Gov. Rick Scott's desk. (File/WUFT News)

TALLAHASSEE — Children testifying in court in abuse, abandonment and neglect cases would be allowed the help of therapy animals under a bill heading to Florida Gov. Rick Scott. The Senate passed the bill unanimously Thursday a week after the House also unanimously passed it. It expands a law that already allows therapy animals for victims testifying in sexual-offense cases. A legislative analysis of the bill says that research has shown animals reduce stress in children, and three Florida district courts that have allowed them have reported positive results.

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
  • Email
The Associated Press is a wire service to which WUFT News subscribes.