FL S0952

Designated as "Ponce's Law" and authorizes courts to prohibit convicted animal abusers from owning, possessing, harboring, or having contact with animals for a court-determined period.

Increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty convictions: second or subsequent offenders must pay a minimum $5,000 fine and serve at least 6 months in prison with no eligibility for early release or parole.

First-time offenders convicted of torture or torment causing animal injury, mutilation, or death must pay a minimum $2,500 fine and complete psychological counseling or anger management treatment.

Reclassifies animal torture offense (intentionally torturing an animal with intent to inflict intense pain, serious physical injury, or death) from third-degree felony in the criminal sentencing chart's Level 3 to Level 5.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.