House Bill No. 1720 proposes the creation of a new criminal offense for trespassing in facilities that house animals, such as zoos, which are operated for public visitation, conservation, education, or science. The bill defines "harass" in relation to animal welfare and establishes that a person commits an offense if they enter a designated area without legal authority and disrupt the normal behavior of an animal. The offense is classified as a state jail felony, escalating to a third-degree felony if the animal is harmed or killed during the trespass. Additionally, the bill outlines defenses against prosecution, including entering the area to assist another person or animal.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that if a defendant is convicted of this new offense, the court must order restitution to the facility for any damages incurred, including costs related to the injury or death of the animal. This provision aims to ensure that facilities housing animals are compensated for losses resulting from unlawful trespassing. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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