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MA S1207

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/27/2025

Primary Sponsor

Michael Moore

Click for details

Origin

Senate

194th General Court

AI Summary

  • Mandates courts prohibit persons convicted of animal cruelty (sections 77, 77C, or 94 of Chapter 272) from owning or accessing animals for at least 5 years for a first offense or 15 years for subsequent offenses, starting from conviction or release from custody

  • Prohibits banned individuals from owning, possessing, residing with, adopting, or fostering animals, and bars them from working or volunteering at animal-related facilities including shelters, pet shops, veterinary clinics, groomers, and breeders

  • Requires courts to notify municipal animal control officers, dog licensing officials, local police chiefs, MSPCA/Animal Rescue League special police officers, and probation departments within 30 days of imposing a prohibition

  • Allows prohibited persons to petition the court once per year for reduced restrictions by demonstrating they pose no danger to animals, can properly care for animals, and have completed required classes and counseling

  • Imposes fines up to $1,000 per animal for violations of the prohibition order, with all fines deposited into the Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund

Legislative Description

Relative to the ownership of pets by convicted animal abusers

Last Action

Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2886

12/18/2025

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/27/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available