The bill amends Vermont's animal cruelty laws to strengthen definitions and penalties related to animal cruelty and sexual conduct with animals. It expands the definition of "sexual conduct" to include inappropriate interactions such as touching an animal's sex organs or anus and the intentional transfer of semen onto an animal. Additionally, it introduces a new definition for "working with" animals, covering a wider range of activities involving contact with animals in various settings. The bill increases penalties for animal cruelty offenses, with first-time offenders facing up to one year in prison or a $2,000 fine, and harsher penalties for repeat offenders and aggravated cruelty cases. It also establishes a framework for individuals convicted of animal cruelty to petition the court to lift restrictions on animal ownership after a specified period.

Moreover, the bill outlines new enforcement procedures, requiring consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets before actions involving livestock and poultry, while granting humane officers the authority to seize animals under certain conditions. It introduces a requirement for appellants in animal forfeiture cases to post security for the care of animals during the appeal process and establishes the Animal Welfare Fund to include these security amounts. The bill also provides immunity for humane officers and animal shelters acting in good faith, with provisions for reducing or waiving security requirements based on financial hardship. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with a report due from the Director of Animal Welfare regarding security amounts and payment schedules by December 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-351, 13-352, 13-352a, 13-353, 13-354
As Passed By the House -- Official: 13-351, 13-352, 13-352a, 13-353, 13-354, 20-3202, 20-3203
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 13-351, 13-352, 13-352a, 13-353, 13-354, 20-3202, 20-3203
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 13-351, 13-352, 13-352a, 13-353, 13-354, 20-3202, 20-3203
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 13-351, 13-352, 13-352a, 13-353, 13-354, 20-3202, 20-3203
As Enacted: 13-351, 13-352, 13-352a, 13-353, 13-354, 20-3202, 20-3203