HB 2025 Summary

• Adds two new Class 5 felony offenses for intentionally or knowingly subjecting a domestic animal to cruel mistreatment or killing a domestic animal without legal privilege or owner consent.

• Defines "domestic animal" as a mammal (not regulated by agricultural law) kept primarily as a pet or companion, or bred to be a pet or companion.

• Distinguishes domestic animal cruelty offenses from existing Class 6 felony provisions by creating a higher penalty tier for the most serious animal abuse.

• Maintains existing misdemeanor and Class 6 felony animal cruelty provisions for other animals and lower-level offenses.