MO HB890

Redefines animal abuse to include intentionally killing animals unlawfully, purposely causing injury or suffering to animals, and knowingly failing to provide adequate care or control as an animal owner or custodian.

Classifies animal abuse as a class A misdemeanor, or a class D felony if the defendant has a prior conviction or if torture or mutilation was consciously inflicted on the animal.

Requires psychological or psychiatric evaluation and treatment for adults convicted of animal abuse (mandatory for torture/mutilation cases, discretionary otherwise) and for juveniles on second or subsequent violations.

Grants immunity from civil liability to veterinarians, teachers, school personnel, and other individuals who report suspected animal abuse violations in good faith to law enforcement.

Allows courts to prevent return of animals to abusers if future neglect or abuse is likely, but permits return to juvenile offenders if the court determines the animal is not at risk for future abuse or neglect.