Georgia lawmakers have approved legislation that would create a statewide animal cruelty database aimed at protecting pets and preventing repeat abuse.

The bill, known as Senate Bill 587, requires the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia to build and maintain a publicly searchable registry of individuals convicted of certain animal cruelty offenses.

Under the proposal, courts would be required to submit conviction and sentencing information, and the database would be updated regularly and available to the public at no cost.

Supporters say the registry will help animal shelters, rescue groups, and even private citizens screen potential pet adopters and avoid placing animals in dangerous situations.

The measure passed both chambers of the Georgia General Assembly and now heads to the governor’s desk, where it could soon become law if signed.