Bill > SB1033

This bill modifies Arizona's laws regarding animal seizure by increasing the required bond amount from $25 to $500 per animal when an animal is seized due to potential cruelty, neglect, or abandonment. Under the updated law, when a peace officer, county enforcement agent, or animal control officer seizes an animal, they must provide a detailed notice to the owner explaining the seizure, including a description of the animal, the reason for seizure, and instructions for requesting a post-seizure hearing. The owner must now post a $500 bond within ten days to cover the animal's care costs, or the animal will be considered abandoned and become the property of the seizing agency. If the owner requests a hearing, a judge will set a date within 15 business days, where the seizing agency must prove by a preponderance of evidence that the animal was subjected to cruel treatment or neglect. If the court finds in favor of the seizing agency, the owner's rights to the animal can be terminated, and the bond will be used to cover the animal's care expenses. The bill provides exceptions for certain agricultural activities and specific animal seizure scenarios, and allows cities, towns, and counties to adopt equal or more stringent ordinances regarding animal seizure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81647