This bill establishes the Office of Animal Protection within the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension of the Department of Public Safety in Minnesota. The office is tasked with addressing animal cruelty comprehensively and includes various powers and duties such as promoting prevention strategies, fostering partnerships for effective enforcement, and providing education on humane treatment of animals. An advisory committee will be formed to assist the office, consisting of members with expertise in animal law and cruelty, as well as community representatives. The director of the office will be appointed by the commissioner and will have the authority to hire additional staff and enter into contracts to fulfill the office's responsibilities.

Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "crime of violence" to include offenses related to animal cruelty, thereby recognizing the link between animal abuse and broader societal violence. It also creates an animal protection account to fund grants for state and local governments and nonprofit organizations aimed at promoting animal protection efforts. An appropriation from the general fund is designated for the establishment and operation of the Office of Animal Protection, with the effective date for the expanded definition of crime of violence set for August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.712
1st Engrossment: 624.712