MD SB152

Each animal harmed in a violation of Maryland's animal cruelty laws constitutes a separate offense, with each animal deemed an individual victim for sentencing guidelines stacking purposes

Animal cruelty convictions may not merge with convictions for any other crime arising from the same act, allowing for separate charges and penalties

Sentences for animal cruelty offenses may be imposed consecutively or concurrently with sentences for other crimes based on the same conduct

Clarifies exemptions from animal cruelty laws to explicitly include hunting and fishing activities conducted in accordance with Title 4 or Title 10 of the Natural Resources Article

Effective October 1, 2025; approved by Governor Wes Moore on April 22, 2025