This bill introduces significant changes to the laws governing the confiscation of animals suspected of abuse. It stipulates that animals can only be confiscated from individuals charged with animal cruelty or if the animals require temporary protective custody. The bill mandates that in cases involving livestock, the investigating officer must be accompanied by the state veterinarian or their designee, who will establish the probable cause for the confiscation. Additionally, it ensures that no animal can be altered or used for fundraising purposes without the owner's notarized consent prior to a conviction for abuse or neglect.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the procedures for taking animals into protective custody, emphasizing that proper care must be provided and that owners have the right to have their animals examined by a veterinarian of their choice at their own expense. It also includes provisions to protect veterinarians and individuals assisting in investigations from liability. Notably, the bill specifies that confiscation without proper charges or determination of protective custody constitutes theft. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 420-J:8-a