Bill > HB89

This bill amends Maryland's criminal law regarding animal-related offenses by clarifying several key provisions. It explicitly defines exceptions to animal cruelty laws, including standard veterinary and agricultural practices, scientific research approved by animal care committees, and activities that may cause unavoidable animal pain when performed using the most humane method available (such as food processing, pest elimination, animal training, and hunting). The bill introduces a significant change in how animal cruelty offenses are prosecuted by establishing that each harmed animal constitutes a separate offense and individual victim for sentencing purposes. Additionally, the bill mandates that a conviction for an animal-related crime cannot be merged with other criminal convictions arising from the same act, and allows sentences for animal-related offenses to be imposed separately and either consecutively or concurrently with sentences for other related crimes. These provisions aim to provide clearer legal guidelines and potentially increase penalties for animal cruelty by treating each animal as a distinct victim. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving legal systems time to prepare for the new guidelines.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0089?ys=2025RS