Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB846

Introduced
6/10/25  

Caption

In cruelty to animals, further providing for animal mutilation and related offenses; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The enactment of SB846 would have significant ramifications on state laws governing animal welfare. The bill proposes to amend existing statutes to explicitly include penalties for mutilation acts, thereby clarifying the legal standards and consequences involved. This change is expected to bolster the enforcement of anti-cruelty laws, thereby enhancing protections for animals and promoting responsible ownership and treatment. These amendments could lead to increased awareness and reporting of animal cruelty incidents across the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 846 (SB846) addresses animal cruelty by specifically targeting mutilation and related offenses. The bill aims to introduce stricter penalties for individuals found guilty of committing such acts against animals. It reflects a growing societal concern for the welfare of animals and the need for more robust legal frameworks to protect them. By enhancing the consequences associated with animal mutilation, the bill seeks to deter potential offenders and provide greater protections for vulnerable animals.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB846 is largely positive among animal welfare advocates and organizations. Supporters argue that the bill reflects a necessary evolution in societal values regarding animal treatment. They believe that imposing stricter penalties is a crucial step towards deterring animal cruelty effectively. However, there may be concerns among some individuals regarding the implications for lawful animal use in certain sectors, leading to debates over how the bill balances animal rights with traditional practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB846 may arise from debates over the definition of mutilation and the specific penalties imposed. Some individuals may argue that certain cultural, historical, or agricultural practices may be jeopardized by the stringent measures proposed. This could lead to discussions about ensuring the bill is sufficiently nuanced to protect animals without adversely affecting legal activities that involve animal handling. The balancing act between animal welfare interests and traditional practices is likely to be a key area of focus among stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1178

In cruelty to animals, further providing for animal mutilation and related offenses.

PA HB508

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for the offense of animal mutilation and related offenses.

PA HB222

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for the offense of cruelty to animal.

PA HB1112

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for the offense of cruelty to animal.

PA HB1475

In cruelty to animals, further providing for definitions and providing for the offense of the use of live pigeons for targets at trap shoot or block shoot.

PA HB1114

In offenses against public order and decency, further providing for the offense of transporting animals in cruel manner.

PA HB2413

In short title and definitions, further providing for definitions; in licenses, tags and kennels, further providing for kennels, for requirements for kennels, for revocation or refusal of kennel licenses and for health certificates for importation; and, in enforcement and penalties, further providing for rules and regulations.

PA HB530

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for prohibition of ownership of certain animals.

PA SB969

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for the offense of gambling devices, gambling, etc; and imposing penalties.

PA HB449

In riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, providing for the offense of kidnapping of animals.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.