A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” by amending sections 49, 50, and 50b (MCL 750.49, 750.50, and 750.50b), section 49 as amended by 2019 PA 176, section 50 as amended by 2019 PA 135, and section 50b as amended by 2018 PA 452.
House Bill No. 5875 seeks to amend sections 49, 50, and 50b of the Michigan Penal Code (1931 PA 328) to enhance regulations and penalties related to animal cruelty and fighting. The bill defines key terms such as "animal," "animal control agency," and "adequate care," and outlines prohibited activities including owning, possessing, or using animals for fighting, baiting, or as targets for marksmanship. It also prohibits organizing, promoting, or being present at such events, and mandates the sterilization and proper documentation of animals adopted from control agencies. Violations of these provisions are classified as felonies or misdemeanors, with penalties ranging from fines of $50 to $50,000, imprisonment for up to 15 years, and community service. The bill also allows courts to order convicted individuals to pay for prosecution costs, animal care, and veterinary treatment, and mandates psychiatric evaluations and counseling if deemed necessary. Additionally, it imposes restrictions on animal ownership for convicted individuals, with potential permanent relinquishment for repeat offenders. The bill modifies existing laws by amending sections of the Michigan Penal Code and incorporates provisions from the animal abuser registry act and the animal forfeiture act.
Introduced
by
Referred to the Committee on Criminal Justice
