HB 5876 - Animal Forfeiture Act

• Creates a streamlined civil forfeiture process for animals seized in investigations of listed animal offenses, including animal abuse, neglect, fighting, torture, and related crimes.

• Requires animal control agencies to notify owners within 72 hours of seizure and gives owners 21 days to post a security deposit or bond to prevent forfeiture; owners must continue posting bonds in 30-day increments throughout the criminal proceeding.

• Establishes that the prosecuting attorney must file a civil forfeiture action and prove by preponderance of the evidence that a listed animal offense occurred; if proven, the animal is forfeited to the animal control agency.

• Allows animal control agencies to humanely euthanize seized animals if a licensed veterinarian determines the animal is injured beyond recovery, poses a public safety threat, or is suffering; also requires forfeiture of all animals owned by individuals convicted of listed animal offenses.

• Exempts lawful fishing, hunting, trapping, wildlife control, pest control, veterinary practice, and farmers following accepted agricultural practices (except farmers convicted of animal offenses).

• Requires approval by Michigan voters at the November 5, 2024 general election to take effect.