Election 2026: Act vows to criminalise use of pets to control family violence victims
The New Zealand Act party has proposed new legislation to criminalize the use of pets as tools of coercion in domestic violence cases. The policy aims to remove a significant barrier for victims who fear leaving abusive partners because of potential harm to their animals.
Why it matters
This policy addresses a critical psychological barrier in domestic abuse, potentially increasing the number of victims who feel safe enough to leave violent situations.
Act has announced it will criminalise the use of pets as “instruments of coercion and control in family violence”.
The article reports on a specific policy proposal from a political party using neutral, descriptive language without endorsing the party's platform.
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