MN SF3542

Creates the Office of Animal Protection within the Department of Public Safety's Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to coordinate prevention, investigation, and prosecution of animal cruelty across the state.

Office shall promote comprehensive approach to animal cruelty prevention including investigations, prosecution, forensic veterinary medicine, animal care, and human welfare services related to offenders or victims.

Establishes advisory committee with members possessing expertise in animal cruelty prevention, investigation, prosecution, animal care, and public members with animal law knowledge or victim experience.

Commissioner appoints director with qualifications in criminal law, animal cruelty disciplines, and leadership skills; director may hire classified state staff and enter into contracts to fulfill office duties.

Appropriates unspecified amount from general fund in fiscal year 2025 to establish and operate the office; creates animal protection account funded by gifts, grants, and contributions for grants to government units and nonprofits.