Bill > HB153

This bill establishes a legislative study committee to explore creating a statewide resource to improve the handling of animal cruelty cases in New Hampshire. The committee will consist of three representatives appointed by the House Speaker and one senator appointed by the Senate President, who will receive mileage reimbursement for their work. The committee's key duties include examining existing training programs for law enforcement and prosecutors, identifying the most effective ways to train stakeholders, and developing a statewide resource group to assist with animal cruelty investigations and responses. They will work with relevant agencies to understand how to best support quick and effective responses to animal distress situations. The committee is required to elect a chairperson, hold their first meeting within 45 days of the act's effective date, and submit a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations to various state officials by November 1, 2025. The bill is a study measure with no direct fiscal impact, aimed at improving the state's capacity to address and prevent animal cruelty.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0495&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB153