The bill amends Florida Statutes Section 828.12, which addresses animal cruelty, by introducing new provisions and penalties for various acts of cruelty towards animals. It specifically prohibits confining an animal in an unattended motor vehicle under conditions that could endanger the animal's health or well-being, classifying this act as animal cruelty, a misdemeanor of the first degree. The bill also establishes that individuals who commit aggravated animal cruelty, which involves intentional acts resulting in severe pain or death to an animal, will face felony charges and increased penalties, including mandatory fines and psychological counseling for repeat offenders.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that multiple acts of animal cruelty can be charged as separate offenses, and it provides immunity for veterinarians from criminal or civil liability when they make decisions related to animal cruelty investigations. The legislation also introduces a specific provision for aggravated animal cruelty against horses, detailing actions that constitute cruelty and exceptions for certain circumstances. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.