HB 51 Summary

• Defines "torture" as inflicting inhumane treatment or gross physical abuse on animals intended to cause intensive or prolonged pain, serious injury, or death.

• Requires veterinarians, doctors, teachers, law enforcement, social workers, clergy, and other specified professionals to report suspected animal torture or cruelty to police or sheriff within one business day of direct knowledge.

• Reports must include the suspect's name and contact information, animal descriptions, owner details, nature of suspected abuse, and any other relevant identifying information.

• Law enforcement must review reports and begin investigation within 72 hours if adequate information is provided, treating confirmed cases as standard criminal investigations.

• Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for mandatory reporters and investigating officers acting in good faith, with exceptions carved out for lawful agricultural, veterinary, hunting, and fishing practices.