A bill that would make it illegal to leave your pets unattended in hot (or cold) cars in Michigan passed unanimously in a state senate committee Tuesday.

WLNS reports that according to the bill's sponsors, currently there is no law prohibiting a person from leaving an animal in a car in extreme temperatures.

One of the sponsors, State Senator Curtis Hertel Jr. told WILNS

"It can become a very dangerous situation for an animal very, very quickly. And it's cruel for an animal to die in that way. So what we want to do is put some protection into law so this doesn't happen any longer."

For first time offenders, the penalty would be a $300 fine and/ or up to 45 days in jail. If the animal dies, it's considered a felony, punishable by up to 5 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

The bill is now pending a vote by the full senate.

According to the ASPCA, as of August 2017, 26 states have laws that prohibit confining animals in cars or provide protection for those who rescue animals trapped in vehicles in extreme conditions.

The ASPCA advises that if you see a pet trapped in a hot car you should try to locate the owner or call 911.

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