This bill amends Louisiana's laws regarding cruelty to animals, specifically addressing penalties and prohibitions for offenders. It establishes that individuals convicted of simple cruelty to animals may face fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, and the court may also require them to cover expenses related to the animal's housing and medical treatment. Additionally, the court can issue an order prohibiting the offender from owning or keeping animals for a period of up to one year. For repeat offenders, the penalties increase significantly, with fines ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 and imprisonment from one to ten years, along with a prohibition on owning animals for up to five years.

Furthermore, the bill allows for psychological evaluations and treatment for offenders, with the court having the discretion to ban them from owning animals for up to ten years. The costs associated with these evaluations and treatments will be the responsibility of the defendant. The amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding animal cruelty and enhance the consequences for those who commit such offenses.

Statutes affected:
HB224 Original: 14:1(A)(2)
HB224 Engrossed: 14:1(A)(2)
HB224 Enrolled: 14:1(A)(2)
HB224 Act : 14:1(A)(2)