The bill amends Washington's animal cruelty laws to enhance the definitions and standards of care for animals. Key updates include a more detailed definition of "necessary food," which must now be species-appropriate, easily accessible, and sufficient in quantity and quality to maintain the animal's health. The definitions of "necessary medical attention," "necessary sanitation," "necessary shelter," "necessary space," and "necessary water" have also been expanded to ensure comprehensive care. Additionally, the bill clarifies the roles of animal control officers and humane officers in enforcing these standards and outlines procedures for seizing animals in cases of suspected cruelty or neglect, allowing officers to enter premises without a warrant if an animal is in imminent danger.

Significant changes include reducing the time a domestic animal can be confined without food and water from thirty-six hours to twenty-four hours before intervention is permitted. The bill also strengthens penalties for animal fighting and cruelty, including prohibiting individuals convicted of such offenses from owning animals for varying durations based on the severity of the conviction. New legal language is introduced to categorize animal fighting offenses into two classifications based on intentional mutilation, enhancing the legal framework surrounding animal cruelty laws. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen protections for animals and ensure their welfare is prioritized in enforcement actions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200
Substitute Bill: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200
Engrossed Substitute: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200
Bill as Passed Legislature: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200
Session Law: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200