Bill > S1277

This bill adds a new section to Massachusetts law that provides a comprehensive framework for protecting neglected animals. The legislation defines "neglect" broadly, including deprivation of food, water, shelter, or subjecting an animal to unnecessary suffering. It empowers various law enforcement and animal control authorities (termed "enforcing authorities") to take action when an animal is believed to be neglected. These actions can include immediately removing an animal in emergency situations, filing a court petition to require the owner to provide better care, or seeking to seize the animal. The bill establishes a legal process where a district court must hold a hearing within 10 days of a petition being filed to determine if the animal is truly neglected. During this hearing, the court can consider extensive evidence, including veterinary records, testimony about the animal's condition, and the owner's history of animal care. If neglect is found, the court can order the animal to be forfeited to authorities, returned to the owner with conditions, or even humanely euthanized. The bill also allows the court to prohibit the owner from owning future animals and may require the owner to pay for the animal's care while in custody. Importantly, the law provides a clear, structured approach to protecting animals from mistreatment while also ensuring due process for animal owners.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1277