Bill > SB1352

This bill modifies the existing law on animal abuse by redefining and expanding the criteria for what constitutes the offense. Under the new provisions, a person can be charged with animal abuse if they intentionally kill an animal in a manner not permitted by law, purposely cause injury or suffering to an animal, or knowingly fail to provide adequate care that results in substantial harm to the animal. The bill changes the potential penalties for such offenses: animal abuse is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor, but can be elevated to a Class E felony under specific circumstances, such as if the person has a prior conviction for animal abuse, if the animal suffers torture or mutilation while alive, or if the harm results from starvation. This modification aims to provide clearer definitions of animal abuse and establish more serious consequences for severe cases of animal cruelty, potentially serving as a stronger deterrent and offering better protection for animals.

Labor and Employment

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=181