Here in Palm Coast and throughout Florida, we are a state of animal lovers. From playful puppies to cozy kittens, chirping birds to even our unique amphibian friends, Floridians have shown time and again that we treasure our beloved fur-babies and feathered companions. We would go to the ends of the earth to protect them, treating them as cherished members of our families.
But sadly, not everyone shares this same devotion. In times of crisis, when animals are most vulnerable and entirely dependent on us for their safety, some are left behind—abandoned, tied up, or forgotten in the chaos of emergency evacuations. For them, the very people they trust the most make a devastating choice.
One proposed bill could change that. It’s a bill that speaks for those who cannot speak for themselves—a bill that seeks to ensure no animal is ever left to face disaster alone. By increasing penalties for animal cruelty during declared states of emergency, this legislation would send a clear message: abandoning or mistreating animals during crises is not only heartless but will carry serious consequences.
We cannot forget the story of Trooper, a Bull Terrier left tied to a fence as Hurricane Milton approached. Trooper, helpless and terrified, stood in chest-high floodwaters as the storm raged closer, his fate sealed by an owner who chose to flee without him. Thankfully, Trooper was rescued, but not all animals are so fortunate.
This bill is about more than punishment—it’s about protecting the voiceless. It’s about creating a future where every pet is given the chance to survive, no matter the circumstances.
If you’ve ever looked into the trusting eyes of your pet and felt their unconditional love, you know what’s at stake. Let’s stand together for Florida’s animals, ensuring they are never left behind when they need us most. Support this bill, and let’s prove once again that Floridians are a community of compassion and care.
"I'm all in on this bill because I'm a big-time dog lover," Rudman stated. "I have two border collies myself and would never dream of treating a family pet in that manner. This bill is important because animal cruelty should have no place in any part of this state."
The dog's former owner, 23-year-old Giovanny Aldama Garcia, was arrested weeks later and charged with aggravated animal cruelty. Garcia reportedly claimed he abandoned the dog because he "couldn't find anyone to pick the dog up" as he evacuated to Georgia.
Following the incident, State Attorney Suzy Lopez of the 13th Judicial Circuit appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2022, called on lawmakers to strengthen penalties for abandoning animals during emergencies. "We need to take a look at this case and discuss changing the law to allow for harsher penalties for people who abandon their animals during disasters," Lopez said.
Navarre Rep. Joel Rudman, who will leave office on New Year's Day to pursue a congressional seat, filed HB-79 on December 30, 2024. Rudman has taken up the cause, though it remains uncertain whether another legislator will sponsor his bills after he steps down from office on Jan. 1 to pursue a congressional seat. He expressed optimism about finding colleagues to champion his initiatives, stating he has had "positive" discussions with several representatives but declined to name them.
Hurricane Milton made landfall on Oct. 10 with sustained winds of 120 mph, just two weeks after Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, caused extensive damage in Florida’s Big Bend region. Together, the storms are estimated to have caused up to $100 billion in damages.
The state legislative session begins on March 4. Palm Coast Local will keep you updated.
Current Bil Standing:
Effective Date (if passed): 7/1/2025
Last Action: 12/30/2024 House - Filed
