OLR Bill Analysis
AN ACT INCREASING THE PENALTY FOR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.
This bill increases the penalty for subsequent convictions for specified types of animal cruelty. Under existing law, violators may be fined up to $ 1,000, imprisoned for up to one year, or both for a first or subsequent offense. The bill increases the penalties for subsequent offenses to a fine of up to $ 5,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
The bill applies to the following:
1. overdriving, overloading, overworking, torturing, depriving of sustenance, mutilating, cruelly beating or killing, or unjustifiably injuring any animal;
2. if impounding or confining an animal, (a) failing to provide it proper care; (b) neglecting to cage or restrain it from injuring itself or another animal; or (c) failing to supply it with wholesome air, food, and water;
3. unjustifiably administering or exposing a domestic animal to any poisonous or noxious drug or substance intending that the animal will take it;
4. if having custody of an animal, (a) inflicting cruelty on it; (b) failing to provide it with proper food, drink, or shelter; (c) abandoning it; or (d) carrying or causing it to be carried in a cruel manner; or
5. fighting with or baiting, harassing, or worrying an animal to make it perform for amusement, diversion, or exhibition.
EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2012
COMMITTEE ACTION
Judiciary Committee
Joint Favorable
Yea |
45 |
Nay |
0 |
(04/02/2012) |