HB11-1151 Summary

• Expands the definition of "animal" in animal cruelty statutes to explicitly include service animals as defined in section 18-1.3-602(3.5)

• Creates a new offense of "cruelty to a service animal" that applies when a person violates animal cruelty provisions with respect to a service animal, whether the animal is on or off duty

• Requires persons convicted of cruelty to a service animal to make restitution to the agency or individual owning the animal for veterinary bills and replacement costs if the animal is disabled or killed

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 10, 2011) unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case effectiveness is contingent on voter approval at the November 2012 general election