If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes regarding animal cruelty by broadening the conditions under which a person can be found guilty of cruelty to animals. Specifically, it would add a new provision that makes it a violation to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly fail to provide medical attention necessary to prevent unreasonable suffering to any domestic animal under a person's custody or control. This change would classify such an offense as a class 1 misdemeanor, thereby increasing the accountability for neglectful behavior towards animals.

Additionally, the bill would modify the definitions of "cruel neglect" and "domestic animal." The definition of "cruel neglect" would be expanded to include the failure to provide adequate shelter for domestic animals, particularly for dogs that primarily reside outdoors, with specific requirements outlined for such shelter. The definition of "domestic animal" would also be updated to include birds, reptiles, and amphibians kept primarily as pets or companions. The legislation would be officially titled "Jerry's Law" and would take effect on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-2242
Senate Engrossed Version: 32-2242
House Engrossed Version: 13-2910
Chaptered Version: 13-2910