This bill amends existing animal cruelty laws to implement stricter guidelines for the confiscation of animals suspected of abuse. It stipulates that animals can only be confiscated if the owner is charged with animal cruelty or if they require temporary protective custody due to imminent danger. A significant addition is the requirement that an investigating officer for livestock must be accompanied by a licensed veterinarian to establish probable cause for confiscation. The bill also emphasizes the rights of individuals charged with animal cruelty, ensuring they are informed about veterinary examinations and any documents they are asked to sign. Additionally, it prohibits the spaying, neutering, or permanent alteration of confiscated animals without the owner's consent or a veterinarian's determination of necessity.

Moreover, the bill establishes a committee to review and update animal cruelty statutes, ensuring they meet current regulatory needs, with a report due by November 1, 2025. It also mandates that lactating animals cannot be separated from their non-weaned offspring and requires individuals involved in animal welfare investigations to sign nondisclosure agreements to protect confidential information. The bill clarifies that confiscation without proper charges or a warrant constitutes theft and outlines that the costs for the care of confiscated animals will be the responsibility of the convicted individual. The financial implications suggest an estimated annual cost of $80,000 for enforcement, with the bill set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 644:8, 436:8
As Amended by the House: 644:8, 436:8, 437-B:1