The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 4-13, "Dogs," to enhance penalties for offenses related to the wrongful treatment of licensed dogs. Specifically, it establishes penalties for the wrongful removal of a licensed dog's collar, with fines increased to a minimum of $100 and a maximum of $1,000, along with a potential imprisonment of up to 30 days for first-time offenders. For individuals previously convicted of similar offenses within a ten-year period, the bill imposes harsher penalties, including fines ranging from $250 to $1,000, up to six months of imprisonment, and a mandatory requirement to complete 100 hours of community restitution.

The bill also addresses the care of dogs, stipulating that for a second or subsequent violation of care standards, the fine shall be not less than $250 and not more than $1,000, with the possibility of up to eleven months of imprisonment. Additionally, the bill expands the authority of city and town animal control officers, designating them as agents authorized to enforce the provisions of this chapter. The act is set to take effect upon passage.