SB 677 - Animal Cruelty (SB 677 SD1)

• Clarifies that Hawaii law permits humane tethering and restraint of dogs while prohibiting cruel or inhumane restraint methods.

• Prohibits tethering dogs under six months of age unless the dog is engaged in a supervised activity with its owner or owner's agent.

• Bans use of tow or log chains for tethering if the chain size or weight inhibits the dog's free movement, and prohibits trolleys, pulleys, cables, or running lines that endanger dogs or prevent access to sustenance.

• Prohibits tethering or restraining dogs with choke collars, pinch collars, or prong collars except when the dog is engaged in a supervised activity.

• Elevates cruelty to animals in the second degree to a class C felony when the offense involves ten or more pet animals in one instance; effective October 1, 2020.