Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas Senate Bill SB503

Introduced
2/12/24  
Refer
2/13/24  

Caption

Increasing the criminal penalties for knowingly and maliciously abandoning any animal in any place without making provisions for the proper care of the animal.

Impact

The bill redefines the legal consequences associated with animal cruelty, making abandonment a more serious offense with increased penalties. Violators could face imprisonment ranging from 30 days to one year, along with fines between $500 and $5,000. Notably, offenders will not be eligible for probation or parole until they have served their minimum sentence. The law also stipulates that offenders must undergo a psychological evaluation, indicating a shift towards understanding the psychological implications of animal cruelty. This could potentially lead to rehabilitation measures rather than solely punitive action.

Summary

Senate Bill 503 introduces significant changes to the legal framework surrounding animal cruelty in Kansas, specifically focusing on the crime of knowingly and maliciously abandoning animals. This legislation seeks to increase the criminal penalties for individuals found guilty of abandoning an animal without making adequate provisions for its care. This amendment is part of a broader effort to enhance protections for animals and aligns with growing public concern for animal welfare. The bill establishes detailed definitions of animal cruelty, emphasizing the seriousness of abandonment and other forms of mistreatment.

Contention

While the bill has garnered significant support from animal rights advocates and aligns with the recognition of animal welfare as a public concern, there may also be points of contention regarding the enforcement of these measures. Critics may question the practical implications of enforcing stricter penalties and whether they will effectively deter animal cruelty. Additionally, the degree to which the bill addresses animal welfare comprehensively may be scrutinized, as some stakeholders might argue for further enhancements to protections for animals, particularly in the context of existing agricultural practices and specific exemptions outlined in the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS S0550

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and would increase penalties for malicious injury to or killing of animals.

KS H6407

Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and would increase penalties for malicious injury to or killing of animals.

KS AB381

Revises provisions related to animals. (BDR 50-793)

KS HB5146

Increase penalties for abuse of or cruelty to animals

KS HB3044

Increase penalties for abuse of or cruelty to animals

KS SB0657

Animals: care and treatment; restitution for care and treatment of certain forfeited animals; impose penalties upon owner. Amends sec. 50 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.50).

KS SB0293

Animals: care and treatment; restitution for care and treatment of certain forfeited animals; impose penalties upon owner. Amends sec. 50 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.50).

KS HB223

Cruelty to animals; possession and ownership of animals.

KS SB11

Cruelty to animals; possession and ownership of animals.

KS HB3130

To increase the protections for the welfare of domestic animals

Similar Bills

LA HB231

Provides relative to the disposition of dogs used in dogfighting

LA SB425

Provides relative to the disposition of dogs and other animals used in dogfighting. (gov sig)

VA SB412

Rabies clinics; animal vaccination and microchip services.

VA HB1468

Companion animals; maximum charge for rabies vaccination.

VA HB1074

Rabies vaccination; titer test, certification.

VA HB1074

Rabies vaccination; titer test, certification.

DE SB109

An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Impoundment Of Animals.

VA HB1330

Companion animals; duty to identify submitted animal, scanning for microchip.