AL HB374

Requires veterinarians, doctors, nurses, teachers, law enforcement, social workers, clergy, and other professionals to report suspected animal torture or cruelty to law enforcement within one business day.

Defines "torture" as physical injury inflicting inhumane treatment or gross physical abuse causing intensive or prolonged pain, and "cruelty" as unnecessary pain or suffering caused to or allowed to continue on an animal.

Exempts lawful agricultural and animal husbandry practices, as well as fishing, hunting, and trapping activities from the reporting requirements and definitions of torture and cruelty.

Provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for persons acting in good faith when making reports of suspected animal abuse.

Establishes a minimum fine of $1,000 for failure to report suspected animal torture or cruelty as required by the act, with effectiveness beginning the first day of the third month following passage and approval.