MI HB5877

Creates a public registry for individuals convicted of animal abuse offenses, including cruelty, torture, fighting, and related crimes, maintained by the Department of State Police.

Prohibits registered individuals from owning, possessing, using, buying, selling, or handling animals during their registry period: 2 years for misdemeanor convictions, 5 years for felony convictions, 7 years after one prior felony conviction, and lifetime after two or more prior felony convictions.

Requires courts to notify defendants of registry requirements before accepting pleas, establishes registration procedures through probation departments, and allows individuals to petition for early removal from the registry if they meet specified criteria including completing abuse treatment programs and remaining conviction-free.

Creates penalties for violating registry restrictions: misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and $3,000 fine for first offense; felony punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment and $5,000 fine for subsequent violations.

Exempts lawful hunting, fishing, farming, and veterinary practices from registry requirements; only takes effect if approved by Michigan voters at the November 5, 2024 general election.