Bill

A 546

Increases the penalty for multiple convictions of torturing or failing to provide sustenance to an animal

2025 Regular Session Introduced by William Colton and 2 co-sponsors

A 546 would impose enhanced penalties for individuals with multiple convictions of torturing or neglecting animals, targeting repeat offenders to deter ongoing abuse.

REFERRED TO AGRICULTURE

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Bill Summary · A 546

Summary of Assembly Bill A 546

Purpose and intent

Bill A 546 seeks to strengthen penalties for repeat cases of animal cruelty by increasing penalties for individuals with multiple convictions of torturing or failing to provide sustenance to an animal. The measure is designed to deter ongoing or repeated abuse and to provide greater accountability for serious animal cruelty offenses.

Key provisions

Applies to individuals with multiple convictions for torturing or failing to provide sustenance to an animal.
Establishes enhanced penalties for second and subsequent convictions, reinforcing sanctions beyond the baseline penalties that apply to a first offense.
The bill aligns with existing animal-cruelty laws, expanding consequences specifically for repeat offenders.
The exact penalties (prison terms, fines, or related sanctions) would be defined in the text of the bill.

Who would be affected

Individuals convicted of torturing an animal or failing to provide sustenance to an animal, particularly those with prior convictions.
Courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies responsible for enforcing animal-cruelty laws.
Animal welfare advocates and organizations seeking stronger deterrents against repeated abuse.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced: January 8, 2025.
Status: Referred to the Assembly Committee on Agriculture (listed twice in the action log, indicating committee referral on the same date).
Next steps: If advanced by the Agriculture Committee, the bill would proceed to floor consideration in the Assembly, and potentially move to the Senate for its companion or related consideration. A companion bill exists in the Senate (S 7395), which suggests parallel consideration across chambers.

Related legislation

Prior-session related Assembly bills: A 1412, A 6536, A 95, A 299, A 5039, A 1650.
Companion: S 7395 (listed as the Senate counterpart).

Notes for readers

As the bill is currently in the Agriculture Committee, key details such as the precise penalty levels and any definitional language will be determined during committee consideration.
The focus is on increasing penalties for repeat offenses, signaling a policy intent to better deter serial animal cruelty and neglect.

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