This bill amends K.S.A. 21-6412 concerning animal cruelty laws in Kansas. It introduces a provision that exempts individuals from certain cruelty charges if they catch a feral cat for the purpose of vaccination, spaying, or neutering and subsequently return the cat to its original location. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the provisions regarding cruelty do not apply to individuals who expose poison on their premises to control predatory animals, as this specific language has been deleted from the law.

The bill also outlines the definitions of animal cruelty, categorizing various offenses and their corresponding penalties, including mandatory imprisonment and fines for serious violations. It establishes procedures for the custody and care of animals showing evidence of cruelty, allowing law enforcement and animal control officers to take action and seek court orders for the transfer of ownership of such animals after a specified period. The bill aims to balance the enforcement of animal welfare laws while providing allowances for responsible actions taken towards feral cats.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-6412