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HB 2436

Modifies provisions relating to offenses involving animals.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dean VanSchoiack

HB 2436: Modifying Animal Impoundment Provisions OverviewBill Number: HB 2436 Title: Modifies provisions relating to the impoundment of animals Status: Prefiled (H) Introduced:

Public Hearing Held (S)
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Bill Summary · HB 2436

HB 2436: Modifying Animal Impoundment Provisions

Overview

Bill Number: HB 2436
Title: Modifies provisions relating to the impoundment of animals
Status: Prefiled (H)
Introduced: February 05, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of HB 2436 is to update and strengthen the state's laws regarding the impoundment of animals, particularly those that have been neglected, abused, or abandoned. The bill aims to provide clearer guidelines for law enforcement and animal control authorities to intervene and protect vulnerable animals, while also ensuring due process for animal owners.

Key Provisions

  • Expands the definition of "neglect" to include failure to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care for an animal
  • Authorizes law enforcement to impound an animal if there is probable cause that the animal is being neglected or abused
  • Requires a hearing within 10 days of impoundment to determine if the animal should be returned to the owner or remain in protective custody
  • Allows the court to order the owner to pay for the animal's care and treatment costs during impoundment
  • Increases penalties for animal cruelty, including higher fines and potential jail time
  • Establishes an "Animal Welfare Fund" to help cover the costs of impounding, caring for, and rehoming abused or neglected animals

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary groups affected by HB 2436 include:

  • Animal owners: Face stricter standards of care and potential penalties for neglect or abuse
  • Law enforcement and animal control agencies: Granted clearer authority to intervene and impound animals in cases of suspected neglect or abuse
  • Animal welfare organizations: May see an increase in the number of animals requiring shelter, care, and rehoming services
  • Taxpayers: Could see increased costs associated with the new "Animal Welfare Fund" and impoundment procedures

The bill aims to better protect vulnerable animals from neglect and abuse, while also ensuring fair treatment of animal owners through the judicial process.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HB 2436 has been prefiled in the state legislature and is awaiting its first committee assignment and hearing. If passed, the new provisions would take effect 90 days after the end of the legislative session. Ongoing monitoring of the bill's progress and potential amendments will be necessary to understand the final form and implementation timeline.

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

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