MI HB4703

Adds definitions for "animal control agency," "animal control shelter," "animal protection shelter," and "service animal" (including miniature horses trained to perform tasks for persons with disabilities) to animal cruelty statute.

Expands restitution requirements to include investigation costs, prosecution costs, seizure costs, care, housing, veterinary medical care, and disposition costs for animal victims; excludes costs previously paid by defendant through security deposit or bond.

Establishes procedures for seizure and custody of animals, requiring notice within 72 hours and allowing owners/possessors to post security deposit or bond within 14 days to prevent forfeiture; bond amount must cover 30 days of care with 30-day increments required if trial continues.

Permits animal control agencies to apply to court for hearing to determine if seized animal should be humanely euthanized due to lack of useful purpose or public safety threat; court may assess euthanasia and care expenses against animal owner.

Animals are forfeited to animal control agency if owner fails to post required security deposit/bond within 14 days; animals found not guilty may be returned to owner at court's discretion.