The proposed bill, SB1072, introduces mandatory registration for individuals convicted of animal cruelty, animal fighting, or bestiality with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) within five days of their conviction. First-time offenders are required to register for five years, while repeat offenders must register for ten years. The bill establishes a Central Animal Abuse Registry, which will be publicly accessible starting January 1, 2025, and will include offenders' photographs, full legal names, and addresses. It also imposes penalties for non-compliance, classifying failure to register or update information as a class 1 misdemeanor.

Key changes from current law include the creation of the Central Animal Abuse Registry and the specific registration requirements for offenders. The bill prohibits the transfer of companion animals to individuals listed in the registry and imposes civil penalties for violations. It also clarifies that the registry does not apply to livestock sales and allows for a "good cause exception" for owning service animals under certain conditions. The bill will take effect only if the legislature appropriates funds for the registry by July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-2910.13
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-2910.13