The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 4-13, which pertains to the care and treatment of dogs. Key changes include the introduction of harsher penalties for the wrongful removal of collars, theft, or harm to licensed dogs, with fines increased from a minimum of $10 to $100 and a maximum of $1,000, along with potential imprisonment for up to 30 days. Additionally, individuals with prior convictions for similar offenses will face increased penalties, including a mandatory fine of at least $500 and not exceeding $1,000 for subsequent violations within a ten-year period, along with a potential imprisonment of up to one year and a requirement to complete 100 hours of community restitution.

The bill also specifies that for a second or subsequent violation of the care of dogs, the fine shall be not less than $500 and not more than $2,500, with a potential imprisonment of up to two years. It authorizes city and town animal control officers as well as agents authorized to enforce the provisions of this chapter. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.