The proposed bill amends various sections of the General Laws related to animal cruelty and the care of neglected animals in Rhode Island. Key changes include the introduction of new penalties under Section 4-1-5, which raises the maximum fine for malicious injury or killing of animals from $1,000 to $5,000 and mandates 50 hours of community restitution for offenders. Additionally, Section 4-1-22 is revised to empower animal control officers and agents of the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to take custody of neglected or abandoned animals, with ownership rights forfeited upon conviction of animal cruelty. The bill also establishes a process for owners to petition for the return of their animals while outlining their responsibilities for covering care costs during custody.

Further amendments in Chapter 4-13, specifically Section 4-13-13, increase penalties for the wrongful removal of collars, theft, or harm to licensed dogs, raising the minimum fine from $10 to $100 and the maximum fine from $100 to $1,000, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders. The bill also introduces mandatory community restitution of 100 hours for individuals convicted of a second or subsequent offense under chapter 1 of title 4, and it establishes stricter regulations on tethering dogs, including prohibiting certain collars and limiting tethering conditions. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance animal welfare protections and ensure that those who commit acts of cruelty face more significant consequences.