The bill amends Section 4-1-22 of the General Laws in Chapter 4-1, titled "Cruelty to Animals," to enhance the authority of animal control officers in cities and towns. It allows these officers, along with agents of the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, to take charge of and provide care for animals that are abandoned, neglected, or in hazardous conditions. The bill stipulates that upon conviction for such offenses, the owner forfeits their rights to the animal, which can then be disposed of by the Society. Additionally, it establishes that the owner is responsible for the costs incurred during the animal's care while in custody.

The bill outlines the process for owners to petition for the return of their animals within sixty days of notification of seizure. It includes provisions for the city or town animal shelter or the Society to petition the court for transfer of ownership of the animal if the owner fails to petition or pay for the care within the specified time. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7562: 4-1-22