This bill amends Louisiana's laws regarding animal cruelty, specifically addressing simple and aggravated cruelty to animals. It redefines "simple cruelty to animals" to clarify that it involves intentional or negligent actions that harm animals, such as tormenting, abandoning, or failing to provide proper care. The bill also introduces penalties for offenders, including fines, imprisonment, community service, and mandatory psychological evaluations for repeat offenders. Notably, it removes previous definitions and provisions that were deemed unnecessary, streamlining the legal language for clarity.

Additionally, the bill outlines the criteria for "aggravated cruelty to animals," which includes more severe actions such as torture, mutilation, and neglect leading to an animal's death. It establishes significant penalties for aggravated cruelty, including higher fines and longer imprisonment terms, along with mandatory psychological evaluations and potential bans on animal ownership. The bill also clarifies exceptions to the law, ensuring that standard agricultural practices are not affected. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen protections for animals and enhance accountability for those who commit acts of cruelty.

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)