Michigan Senate Bill SB0293

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/13/25
• Refer: 5/13/25

Caption

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).

Impact

The bill has significant implications for current laws regarding animal welfare and neglect in Michigan. It stipulates a series of processes for the seizure of animals deemed to be neglected or abused and provides a clear framework for hearings regarding the justification of such actions. The law imposes penalties for those found guilty of neglect, with increased severity depending on the number of animals involved in the violation. This marks a more punitive approach toward individuals failing to provide adequate care for animals.

Summary

Senate Bill 293, amending the Michigan penal code regarding animal care and treatment, seeks to enforce stricter regulations on the treatment of animals and outlines the process for forfeiture of animals by animal control agencies. One major emphasis of the bill is the definition of 'adequate care' for animals, which encompasses sufficient food, water, shelter, sanitary conditions, exercise, and veterinary attention. It categorizes various entities involved in animal care and outlines responsibilities and definitions for animal control shelters and protection shelters.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB 293 involves the method of determining the financial responsibility of animal owners in cases of seizure. The requirement for a security deposit to cover costs incurred by animal control agencies may burden low-income individuals and lead to automatic forfeiture without a fair hearing. Additionally, the provisions for euthanasia of animals deemed a threat to public safety or lacking utility raise ethical concerns among animal rights advocates, who argue for more humane treatment and consideration of individual circumstances.