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MI HB5361
Bill
Status
12/11/2025
Primary Sponsor
Joseph Aragona
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AI Summary
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Expands restitution requirements for animal cruelty convictions to include costs of investigation, prosecution, seizure, care, housing, veterinary care, and disposition (including transfer, euthanasia, or adoption) of animal victims
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Establishes detailed procedures for seizure and forfeiture of animals that are victims of cruelty, requiring animal control agencies to notify owners within 72 hours and hold animals for 14 days before forfeiture
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Requires owners to post a security deposit or bond to prevent forfeiture of seized animals, with the amount covering 30-day care costs and renewable in 30-day increments until criminal proceedings conclude
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Allows owners to request a hearing within 14 days to challenge whether the security deposit or bond requirement is justified or whether the amount is fair and reasonable, with courts required to consider the owner's ability to pay
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Grants animal control agencies immunity from civil liability for lawful disposition of animals and authorizes euthanasia of seized animals if a veterinarian determines the animal is injured or diseased past recovery or poses a public safety threat
Legislative Description
Crimes: animals; restitution for care and treatment of certain forfeited animals; impose penalty on ownership of animal to person convicted of certain crimes against animal. Amends sec. 50b of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.50b).
Crimes: penalties
Last Action
Bill Electronically Reproduced 12/11/2025
12/16/2025