ND SB2211

State board of animal health may restrict importation and sale of domestic and wild animals if they pose a threat to human or animal health, with exemptions for scientific, educational, and temporary exhibition purposes.

Board must maintain a list of licensed veterinarians trained to assist in criminal investigations related to animal law violations.

Creates new animal welfare offenses: neglect (class A misdemeanor), abuse (class A misdemeanor for first/second offense; class C felony for third or subsequent offense within ten years), cruelty (class C felony), and abandonment (class A misdemeanor).

Law enforcement officers may seize animals believed to be neglected or abused; owners pay all seizure and care costs, and law enforcement agencies have a lien on seized animals; animals can be sold, adopted, or humanely destroyed if owners don't claim them within five days.

Establishes specific standards for animal care including food, water, shelter, medical attention, and environmental conditions, with broad exemptions for livestock production, animal competition, rodeo, hunting, fishing, and veterinary services.