Loading chat...

MA S1190

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/27/2025

Primary Sponsor

Mark Montigny

Click for details

Origin

Senate

194th General Court

AI Summary

  • Defines "cruel conditions" for domestic animals to include exposure to excessive waste, garbage, non-potable water, noxious odors, dangerous objects, other animals that could cause injury, and failure to provide appropriate food, water, and weather protection based on species, age, and physical condition

  • Establishes graduated penalties for violations: first offense receives a written warning or fine up to $50; second offense up to $200; third or subsequent offense up to $500 with possible impoundment or loss of animal ownership

  • Directs fines collected under Section 37 of Chapter 129 to be deposited into the Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund

  • Expands the definition of "domestic animal" to include all animals kept domestically, regardless of purpose, including livestock

  • Preserves the ability to pursue criminal prosecution under existing animal cruelty statutes (Chapter 272, Section 77) in addition to civil citations

Legislative Description

Enhancing the issuance of citations for cruel conditions for animals

Last Action

Accompanied S2720

3/12/2026

Committee Referrals

Ways and Means11/19/2025
Municipalities and Regional Government5/22/2025
Judiciary2/27/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available