This bill amends Section 1685 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to animal cruelty. It establishes that any person who willfully or maliciously tortures, kills, or injures an animal, or deprives it of necessary care, will be guilty of a Class B5 felony. The penalties for such offenses include imprisonment for up to five years in the custody of the Department of Corrections, up to one year in county jail, or a fine of more than $5,000. Additionally, any animal that is maltreated will be classified as abused or neglected.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the Department of Corrections to create a searchable database on its website that lists individuals convicted of animal cruelty offenses, including those who plead guilty or no contest. The Department is also authorized to promulgate rules to implement this database. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-1685