Bill > SB0294

This bill amends existing Michigan law to strengthen protections for animals by increasing penalties for animal cruelty and establishing new provisions for the care and restitution of seized animals. Specifically, it defines "animal" as any vertebrate other than a human and "companion animal" as a pet or service animal, including dogs and cats. The bill categorizes animal cruelty into three degrees: first degree for intentionally harming a companion animal while threatening or causing mental distress to a person, second degree for intentionally harming a companion animal or intentionally harming any animal while threatening or causing mental distress to a person, and third degree for other acts of cruelty. Penalties for these offenses range from imprisonment for up to 10 years and fines up to $5,000 for first-degree cruelty, down to imprisonment for up to 4 years and fines up to $5,000 for third-degree cruelty, with additional community service options for all degrees. A significant addition is the requirement for defendants to pay restitution for the costs associated with investigating, prosecuting, and caring for seized animals, including veterinary care and disposition, unless those costs were already covered by a security deposit or bond. The bill also introduces a process for animal control agencies to seize animals suspected of being victims of cruelty, requiring notice to owners and allowing for the posting of a security deposit or bond to prevent forfeiture of the animal during legal proceedings, with provisions for hearings to determine the justification and reasonableness of these costs. Furthermore, it outlines conditions under which seized animals can be euthanized if they are deemed irrecoverable or a public safety threat, and clarifies that animal control agencies are immune from civil liability for lawful disposition of seized animals. The bill also prohibits individuals convicted of certain animal cruelty crimes from owning or possessing animals for a period determined by the court, with violations potentially leading to probation revocation or contempt of court charges. Importantly, the bill includes exceptions for lawful practices such as farming, hunting, fishing, and scientific research.