MO HB1444

Authorizes law enforcement and public health officials to seek warrants to inspect, care for, or impound neglected or abused animals upon showing probable cause of a violation.

Requires a disposition hearing within 30 days of impoundment; prohibits sterilization of animals before the hearing unless necessary to save life or relieve suffering.

Allows owners to prevent animal disposition after the hearing by posting reasonable bond within 72 hours to cover care costs; animals may be humanely disposed of if bond is not posted or expires.

Makes it a Class B misdemeanor (Class A for subsequent violations) to intentionally euthanize or sterilize impounded animals outside permissible circumstances or before a disposition hearing.

Provides that acquitted or discharged owners are entitled to immediate return of their animals and are not liable for care costs during the charges, unless there is a settlement agreement or suspended sentence.