House Bill 3427 aims to strengthen the laws against animal cruelty in West Virginia by amending existing statutes related to the treatment of animals. The bill introduces clear definitions for "food," "water," "shelter," and "treatment," and specifies requirements for tethering animals, including the type of harness or collar to be used, the length and weight of the tether, and conditions for tethering during extreme weather. It also establishes that animals can be seized if they are at risk of harm or death due to violations of these provisions. The bill increases criminal penalties for animal cruelty, making a second offense subject to harsher fines and mandatory jail time.

Additionally, the bill creates a state-wide, publicly accessible registry for individuals who violate animal cruelty laws for a second time, prohibiting them from adopting or selling animals. It mandates psychiatric evaluations for those convicted of animal cruelty before being considered for probation and allows courts to require anger management programs. The legislation emphasizes the importance of proper care for animals, including adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care, while also outlining the consequences for those who fail to comply with these standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8-19