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SB 2133

Animal Cruelty and Abuse - As introduced, adds starvation resulting in death of a livestock animal to the types of conduct that constitute the Class E felony of aggravated cruelty to a livestock animal, when done in a depraved and sadistic manner without justifiable or lawful purpose. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

Tennessee elevates intentional livestock starvation causing death to Class E felony when committed sadistically, strengthening animal cruelty prosecution standards.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SB 2133

Legislative bill overview

SB 2133 amends Tennessee criminal law to explicitly classify deliberate starvation resulting in death of livestock as aggravated cruelty to animals—a Class E felony—when committed with depraved and sadistic intent without justifiable purpose. The bill targets intentional, malicious harm rather than negligence or accidental deprivation.

Why is this important

Animal cruelty statutes affect enforcement capabilities and sentencing severity in cases of intentional livestock abuse. This clarification provides prosecutors with explicit statutory language for prosecution and establishes a serious felony designation for what some view as particularly cruel conduct, while affecting how courts interpret existing cruelty laws.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: "Depraved and sadistic manner" is subjective; cases involving neglect from extreme poverty or mental health crisis could face legal interpretation disputes despite potential lack of intentional cruelty
  • Livestock vs. companion animals: The bill applies only to livestock, raising questions about whether similar protections for pets reflect policy inconsistencies or legitimate categorical distinctions
  • Justifiable purpose scope: "Justifiable or lawful purpose" remains undefined, potentially creating disputes over cultural practices, emergency situations, or economic hardship defenses

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

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