The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend existing statutes related to animal cruelty by increasing the penalties for certain offenses. Specifically, it would elevate the classification of intentionally or knowingly killing or seriously harming a working or service animal from a class 6 felony to a class 5 felony. Additionally, the bill would introduce new provisions that allow for justification defenses in animal cruelty cases and would make individuals liable for costs associated with the training and replacement of injured or killed working or service animals.

Furthermore, the bill would make several deletions and insertions to the current statute, including the removal of outdated language and the addition of new definitions and penalties. For instance, it would clarify that injuring a working or service animal is a punishable offense and would adjust the classification of various animal cruelty violations. The bill also aims to streamline the process for individuals seeking to restore their right to possess animals after a conviction, requiring a psychiatric evaluation and counseling as part of the application process. Overall, these changes are intended to strengthen the legal framework surrounding animal protection in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-2910
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-2910, 13-2910.11, 13-417, 17-101
House Engrossed Version: 13-2910, 13-2910.11, 17-101
Chaptered Version: 13-2910, 13-2910.11, 17-101