WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HF 559

A bill for an act relating to animal abuse, neglect, and torture, and providing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Rinker

HF 559 elevates animal abuse and neglect to a Class “D” felony, imposing up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,245, enhancing protection for animals.

Introduced, referred to Judiciary.
#animalcruelty #animals #neglect #torture
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 559

Summary of Bill HF 559

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HF 559
  • Title: A bill for an act relating to animal abuse, neglect, and torture, and providing penalties.
  • Status: Introduced, referred to Judiciary.
  • Introduced Date: February 24, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject Areas: Animal Cruelty, Animals, Neglect, Torture

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 559 is to strengthen penalties for individuals who commit acts of animal abuse, neglect, or torture. The bill aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding animal welfare by reclassifying certain offenses and increasing the severity of penalties for repeat offenders.

Key Provisions

  • Classification of Offenses:

    • The bill establishes that individuals who commit animal abuse or neglect resulting in serious injury or death to an animal, or who engage in acts of animal torture, will be guilty of a Class “D” felony.

  • Penalties for Class “D” Felony:

    • A Class “D” felony is punishable by:
    • Confinement for up to five years.
    • A fine ranging from $1,025 to $10,245.

  • Comparison to Current Law:

    • Under existing law, a first offense of animal abuse or neglect is classified as an aggravated misdemeanor, with a Class “D” felony designation only for subsequent violations. HF 559 seeks to elevate the initial offense to a felony level, reflecting a more stringent approach to animal welfare.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals: The bill primarily affects individuals convicted of animal abuse, neglect, or torture, particularly those with prior convictions.
  • Animals: The legislation aims to provide better protection for animals by imposing harsher penalties on those who harm them.
  • Law Enforcement: The bill may impact how law enforcement agencies handle cases of animal cruelty, as the legal consequences for offenders will be more severe.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 24, 2025, and has been referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent legislative actions, such as hearings or votes, has not yet been established.

Conclusion

HF 559 represents a significant step towards enhancing the legal consequences for animal cruelty offenses. By reclassifying certain acts as felonies and increasing penalties, the bill aims to deter future incidents of animal abuse and promote better treatment of animals within the jurisdiction.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.