IN HB1026

Elevates the offense of striking, tormenting, injuring, or otherwise mistreating a law enforcement animal from a Class A misdemeanor to a Level 6 felony.

Elevates the offense of interfering with a law enforcement animal's actions while assisting an officer from a Class A misdemeanor to a Level 6 felony.

Establishes that mistreatment resulting in serious permanent disfigurement, unconsciousness, permanent or protracted loss or impairment of bodily function, or death of the animal constitutes a Class D Level 6 felony.

Provides a defense if the accused engaged in reasonable training, handling, or discipline while acting as an employee or agent of a law enforcement agency.

Requires courts to order restitution for veterinary bills and mandates restitution for replacement costs of the animal, including training expenses, if the animal is permanently disabled or killed.

Effective July 1, 2014.