This bill amends Louisiana's laws regarding animal cruelty, specifically addressing simple and aggravated cruelty to animals. It redefines simple cruelty to animals, specifying that it occurs when a person intentionally or with criminal negligence engages in certain harmful behaviors, such as tormenting, abandoning, or failing to provide proper care for an animal. The bill also introduces penalties for offenders, including fines, imprisonment, community service, and potential bans on owning animals. Notably, it removes previous language that included specific acts of mistreatment and clarifies the conditions under which abandonment is not considered a crime.

Additionally, the bill outlines the definition of aggravated cruelty to animals, which includes more severe actions such as torture, maiming, or failing to provide necessary care that results in an animal's death. It establishes penalties for aggravated cruelty, including significant fines and imprisonment, and mandates psychological evaluations and treatment for offenders. The bill also repeals certain provisions that were previously included in the law, streamlining the legal framework surrounding animal cruelty offenses. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen protections for animals and ensure that offenders face appropriate consequences for their actions.

Statutes affected:
HB492 Original: 14:1(A)(1)
HB492 Engrossed: 14:1(A)(1)
HB492 Enrolled: 14:1(A)(1)
HB492 Act : 14:1(A)(1)