NC S209

Establishes the "NC Pets We Care Hotline" within the Attorney General's office to receive reports of animal cruelty and Animal Welfare Act violations via telephone, email, and website, with reports kept anonymous unless the reporter consents to disclosure.

Requires the Attorney General to refer animal cruelty allegations to local law enforcement and Animal Welfare Act violations to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, while tracking total reports and reports against individuals.

Imposes a $250 court fee upon conviction in animal cruelty cases (Article 47 of Chapter 14) and Animal Welfare Act violations, to be paid to the local government unit that investigated the crime for law enforcement support.

Court may waive the $250 fee only upon written order with findings of fact and conclusions of law determining just cause.

The fee provision becomes effective January 1, 2016; all other provisions become effective upon the bill's enactment.