AZ HB2242

Adds two new felony-level violations (class 5 felonies) to Arizona's animal cruelty statute: intentionally or knowingly subjecting a domestic animal to cruel mistreatment, or intentionally or knowingly killing a domestic animal without legal privilege or owner consent.

Defines "domestic animal" as a mammal kept primarily as a pet or companion, or bred to be a pet or companion.

Maintains existing misdemeanor and felony classifications for other animal cruelty violations, with class 1 misdemeanors for reckless violations and class 6 felonies for intentional or knowing violations involving service or working animals.

Preserves existing defenses and exemptions for wildlife control, agricultural activities, and lawful animal control practices.