Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB61

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/25
• Refer: 2/24/25
• Report Pass: 3/11/25
• Refer: 3/11/25
• Engrossed: 3/13/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Enrolled: 6/19/25

Caption

Injuring or killing a police or fire animal and providing a penalty.

Impact

If enacted, AB61 would increase the legal ramifications for individuals who intentionally harm or kill animals that are part of law enforcement or fire department operations. The proposed penalties include fines up to $10,000 and a maximum of six years for causing injury, as well as fines of up to $25,000 and ten years for causing death. These modifications aim to deter potential offenders by establishing stricter consequences for such actions, thereby reinforcing the gravity with which society views the well-being of these service animals.

Summary

Assembly Bill 61 (AB61) proposes significant changes to the penalties associated with injuring or killing police and fire animals in Wisconsin. The bill seeks to amend existing statutes to escalate the punishment for harming these animals from a Class I felony to a Class H felony for injuries and from a Class H felony to a Class G felony for fatalities. This change reflects an increasing acknowledgment of the important roles that police and fire animals play in law enforcement and public safety, aiming to enhance their protection under the law.

Contention

The discussions surrounding AB61 may elicit varied opinions. Supporters are likely to argue that the bill is a necessary measure to acknowledge the loyalty and service of these animals, who are often placed in dangerous situations to protect human lives. However, opponents could raise concerns about the implications of escalating penalties, suggesting that they may not address the root causes of animal abuse and might disproportionately affect certain demographics. The bill will require careful consideration during legislative discussions to balance animal welfare with appropriate legal responses to such crimes.