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 is empowered to promote prevention, enforce animal cruelty laws, and educate the public on the importance of humane treatment of animals. It will also foster partnerships with various stakeholders, conduct research, and provide training and resources to local authorities. An annual performance report will be submitted to legislative committees to review the office's operations and recommend changes in animal protection laws.

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 human violence. It also creates an animal protection account to fund the office's activities and allows for the acceptance of grants and contributions to support its mission. The bill appropriates funds for the establishment and operation of the Office of Animal Protection for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 624.712