Bill > H1656

This bill aims to protect animals from convicted animal abusers. The key provisions include: 1. Prohibiting individuals convicted of animal abuse from harboring, owning, possessing, or residing with animals for a minimum of 5 years (first offense) or 15 years (second or subsequent offense) after their release from custody. The court will notify relevant authorities, such as animal control officers and dog licensing officials, about the duration of the prohibition. 2. Allowing convicted offenders to petition the court to reduce the duration of the prohibition, provided they can demonstrate they do not pose a danger to animals and have the ability to properly care for them. 3. Imposing fines of up to $1,000 per animal for those found in violation of the order, with the fines being deposited into the Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund. The bill aims to protect animals from further abuse by restricting access to them by convicted animal abusers, while also providing a pathway for offenders to demonstrate rehabilitation and potentially have the restrictions reduced.