House Bill 3427 aims to strengthen the laws regarding animal cruelty in West Virginia by amending existing statutes. The bill introduces specific definitions for "food," "water," "shelter," and "treatment," and outlines detailed 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 penalties for animal cruelty are increased, with first-time offenders facing fines and possible jail time, while repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including mandatory incarceration and increased fines.

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 and aims to enhance the protection of animal welfare in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8-19