Bill > H3446

This bill proposes to amend existing Massachusetts General Laws, specifically Section 77 of Chapter 272, which deals with animal abuse. The key provision is to create a new penalty for animal abuse committed in the presence of a child under the age of 14. If convicted of animal abuse while a child under 14 is present, the offender could face imprisonment in state prison for up to 10 years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. This addition aims to address the potential psychological harm to children who witness such acts of cruelty.