This bill amends existing animal cruelty laws to implement stricter guidelines for the confiscation of animals suspected of abuse. It prohibits the confiscation of animals unless the individual is formally charged with animal cruelty or if the animals are in imminent danger and require temporary protective custody. The bill mandates that for livestock cases, an investigating officer must be accompanied by a state veterinarian or their designee to establish probable cause for confiscation. Additionally, it ensures that individuals charged with animal cruelty are informed of their rights regarding veterinary examinations and any legal documents they may need to sign. The bill also introduces provisions that prevent the alteration or euthanization of confiscated animals without the owner's consent or unless a veterinarian deems it necessary to save the animal's life.

Moreover, the bill establishes a process for individuals with proof of ownership to petition for temporary custody of confiscated animals, prioritizing claims based on the animals' health and wellbeing. It prohibits the use of confiscated animals for fundraising until after a conviction for abuse or neglect. Key changes include the requirement for a licensed veterinarian to accompany officers during livestock investigations, the stipulation that lactating animals cannot be separated from their non-weaned offspring, and the necessity for individuals involved in animal welfare investigations to sign nondisclosure agreements. The bill also clarifies that confiscating animals without proper charges or a warrant constitutes theft and prohibits spaying or neutering animals in temporary custody unless necessary. A committee will be established to review and update animal cruelty statutes, with findings due by November 1, 2025, and the bill is projected to incur an annual cost of approximately $80,000 for enforcement, effective January 1, 2026.

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