The bill amends Washington's animal cruelty laws to enhance the definitions and standards of care for animals, introducing more detailed definitions for "necessary food," "necessary medical attention," "necessary sanitation," "necessary shelter," "necessary space," and "necessary water." These changes emphasize the importance of both the physical and mental well-being of animals. Additionally, the bill clarifies the roles of animal control officers and law enforcement in animal seizure cases, including the requirement for a bond to cover the costs of care for seized animals. It allows officers to act without a warrant in situations of imminent danger, mandates notification of owners regarding their rights, and establishes procedures for the forfeiture of animals from individuals prohibited from owning them.

Furthermore, the bill introduces significant changes such as reducing the timeframe for impounding animals without necessary food and water from thirty-six to twenty-four hours, and allowing officers to enter properties to provide care to animals in imminent danger. It strengthens penalties for animal fighting and cruelty, including prohibiting convicted individuals from owning animals for varying durations based on the severity of their offenses. The bill also introduces the new offense of "Animal Fighting (without intentional mutilation)" to address animal fighting more comprehensively. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen protections for animals, clarify the responsibilities of law enforcement, and enhance legal responses to animal cruelty and related offenses.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 16.52.011, 16.52.085, 16.52.100, 16.52.117, 16.52.200