HB 4755 Summary

• Prohibits owning or possessing animals for at least 5 years after sentencing or release from incarceration (whichever is later) for persons convicted of animal fighting, abuse, or cruelty violations under MCL 750.49, 750.50, and 750.50b.

• Makes animal fighting a felony punishable by up to 4 years imprisonment and fines of $5,000-$50,000, with enhanced penalties for organizing fights or collecting money for fights.

• Classifies animal cruelty (killing, torturing, mutilating, maiming, or poisoning animals) as a felony punishable by up to 4 years imprisonment and fines up to $5,000, with penalties increasing based on number of animals involved.

• Requires courts to order convicted persons not to own or possess livestock if livestock was involved in the violation, with duration determined by the court.

• Allows courts to order defendants to pay prosecution costs, animal care costs, veterinary expenses, and psychiatric/psychological counseling expenses, and permits temporary animal forfeiture pending trial with defendant posting security for care costs.