Bill would stiffen penalties for animal cruelty and abandonment

What does this do?

This bill makes two changes to federal law. It increases the maximum prison time for animal crushing to 10 years for a first offense and 15 years for a repeat offense. It also creates a new federal crime for knowingly abandoning or violently harming a domesticated animal when the act crosses state lines, involves foreign commerce, or happens on federal land.

Who does it affect?

This applies to anyone in the United States whose mistreatment or abandonment of a domesticated animal falls under federal jurisdiction. The law covers mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians kept as pets or for commercial purposes.

Why does it matter?

People convicted of animal crushing would face longer prison sentences than current federal law allows. Those who abandon or harm a pet across state lines or on federal land could now face federal criminal charges where none existed before.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Fines possible for both crimes
• Amounts not specified
• Collector not identified