MO HB564

Repeals sections 578.009 and 578.012 and creates new sections 578.009, 578.011, and 578.012 relating to crimes against animals

Changes animal neglect and abandonment offenses: Class C misdemeanor on first conviction (punishable by up to 500 dollars fine or imprisonment), and Class B misdemeanor on subsequent convictions (punishable by up to 1,000 dollars fine or imprisonment)

Creates new animal trespass offense for failing to provide adequate control of an animal for 12 or more hours: infraction on first conviction (up to 200 dollars fine) and Class C misdemeanor on subsequent convictions (up to 500 dollars fine or imprisonment)

Modifies animal abuse offense to be a Class A misdemeanor, or Class D felony if defendant has prior animal abuse conviction or if suffering involved torture or mutilation consciously inflicted on a living animal

Allows courts to waive fines and penalties for first convictions of animal neglect, abandonment, or trespass if adequate permanent remedies are made, though reasonable care costs cannot be waived; courts may also order defendants to pay all reasonable costs for animal care, disposal, cleanup, and public health measures