Bill > HB5207

This bill aims to enhance the welfare of domestic animals by strengthening existing laws and introducing new protections. It clarifies the duties of humane officers, requiring them to enforce specific animal welfare provisions and report suspected abuse or neglect of vulnerable individuals, including minors, the elderly, and incapacitated persons, to the appropriate authorities. The bill also increases penalties for interfering with humane officers, raising the fine for such offenses. Furthermore, it expands the definition of "adequate care" for companion animals to include specific requirements for feed, water, shelter, space, exercise, and veterinary attention, and prohibits unlawful confinement of domestic animals, detailing specific conditions under which chaining or tethering is illegal and outlining penalties for violations. The bill also addresses animal hoarding by making it unlawful and defining the conditions that constitute hoarding, with penalties and provisions for removing animals from hoarders. Finally, it refines the penalties for cruelty to animals, including making a second or subsequent conviction a felony with mandatory incarceration and allowing courts to prohibit convicted individuals from owning animals for extended periods.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5207&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill