HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.314 2024-2026C�io Q+C"
From: Leigh Ann Conway
Sent: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 1:29 PM r —�
To: Council Testimony, Villegas, Rebecca; Galimba, Michelle M.
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Subject: Bill 51 -n
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Testimony Regarding Bill 51
Aloha Council Members, CO M
My name is Craig Moody, and I would like to voice my strong opposition to Bill '51. I realize I am a bit late
submitting this — my wife injured herself and is somewhat immobile. But this is very important to both of
us. This proposed legislation particularly the heavy fines aimed at those feeding and providing humane care
for free -roaming cats —will not solve the problem. In fact, it will make things worse.
I urge you to consider two critical points:
1. This Bill Will Push People into Hiding —Creating Dangerous Conditions
The individuals currently feeding and caring for these animals do so out of compassion and at their own
expense. Many are participants in humane, structured TNR (Trap -Neuter -Return) programs —efforts that are
globally recognized as the most effective long-term approach to managing community cat populations.
By criminalizing these efforts, you are driving them underground. Feeders will not stop. They will simply shift
their activities to the early morning or late -night hours —alone, in the dark, and without oversight or safety. That
increases the danger not just to the cats, but to the people. You will not be stopping the feeding you will be
making it more secretive, riskier, and harder to monitor.
2. This Law Punishes Compassion More Severely Than Cruelty
The bond between caregiver and cat is real. For 99% of people involved in TNR and feeding, simply "stopping"
is not an option —it would feel like abandonment. These animals recognize and rely on those who care for them.
They are part of a living, breathing, interdependent community.. Caretakers can recognize every cat and
understand when something is wrong with one.
What is truly outrageous is the fact that this bill proposes steep penalties for humane feeders, while offering
little to no accountability for those who abuse or torture animals.
I can tell you, firsthand, of a cat that was deliberately and horrifically tortured to death. And nothing —
nothing —was done to the person responsible. Yet under Bill 51, someone offering food and water to that same
cat would face harsh fines? This is not just unjust —it is morally backward.
Bill 51 does not reflect the values of aloha, stewardship, and compassion that our island communities are built
upon. There is a better path —one rooted in science, community involvement, and humane practices.
Please reject this bill and support proven, data -driven TNR programs instead. Mahalo for your time.
Leigh Ann
Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat. FSF Comm. �•
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