The bill that intends jail time to punish animal abuse in Costa Rica has more than five years waiting for an approval.
But animal advocates will not slacken in their efforts, although the country will have to pay ¢2.700 million for a referendum to let the people decide whether or not to approve the law.
The collection of signatures to summon the country to consultation will begin on July, 2nd and the goal is to have 250,000 signatures in October, 2016.
The proposal provides sentences of between 3 and 6 years against those who mistreat or threaten the lives of animals, but excludes animals used for productive activities and public performances.
On the other hand, the bill also faces 47 amendment motions filed by deputies from different political parties, who believe the rules it contains are very open and can easily fail in the constitutional court.