Substitute Bill No. 5264 seeks to enhance protections for service and companion animals while addressing animal abuse through the establishment of an Animal Abuse Task Force. Key provisions include prohibiting insurers from canceling or refusing to renew homeowners or tenants insurance policies based solely on the breed of dog owned by the insured if the dog is trained as a service animal. The bill also redefines "companion animal" to encompass a wider range of domesticated animals and allows for the appointment of an advocate in legal proceedings concerning the welfare or custody of these animals. This advocate will have the authority to monitor cases, consult relevant individuals, and present information to the court, thereby ensuring that the interests of justice are represented.

Additionally, the bill introduces stricter penalties for animal cruelty, reclassifying certain offenses as class D felonies for repeat offenders and expanding the definition of assault to include domestic animals. It establishes that assault against a domestic animal will be treated similarly to assault against vulnerable individuals. The bill also creates a task force to study the establishment of a state animal abuse registry and recommend revisions to the pretrial rehabilitation program for those charged with animal cruelty. The task force will consist of appointed members from various sectors, and it is required to submit a report by January 1, 2027. Amendments to existing statutes related to animal cruelty are included, with an effective date set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-86n
INS Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference: 54-86n