Ohio is increasing the penalties for companion animal cruelty and prohibiting the use of gas chambers to euthanize companion animals.

Governor Mike DeWine on Monday signed Senate Bill 164, co-sponsored by Senators Kenny Yuko (D-Richmond Heights) and Jay Hottinger (R-Newark).

The law prohibits confining companion animals, such as any cat, dog or other animal kept inside a home without supplying that animal with sufficient, wholesome food and water.   The law does not include livestock or wild animals

“This bill will bring us one step closer toward putting an end to animal cruelty in our state,” said Yuko.

The law also prohibits the use of a gas chamber to euthanize a companion animal. Violations will result in a fourth-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and up to a $250 fine. Ohio was one of four states in the U.S. that did not ban the use of gas chambers for animal euthanasia.

“The legislature has made a number of advancements legislatively for the health and safety of companion animals and Senate Bill 164 is the next step to strengthen efforts made in Goddard’s Law,” said Senator Hottinger. “Protecting animals from the most egregious acts of cruelty is not only beneficial to our pets, but it also helps protect society as acts of cruelty against animals is often a gateway to serious crimes committed against people.”