CO SB042

Requires specific professionals and entities to report animal abandonment, mistreatment, or neglect to the animal's owner or law enforcement within 48 hours of witnessing or obtaining knowledge of each incident

Mandates reporting by veterinarians, veterinary technicians, dog trainers, animal behaviorists, farriers, pet groomers, code enforcement officers, brand inspectors, animal control officers, peace officers, mental health professionals, social workers, and facility operators caring for animals, among others

Includes provision requiring anyone with reasonable cause to know or suspect animal abandonment, mistreatment, or neglect to report such incidents

Establishes a class 3 misdemeanor penalty for failing to report within the 48-hour timeframe or knowingly filing false reports of animal abuse

Takes effect September 1, 2015, subject to possible referendum petition and voter approval in November 2016