OH HB146

Enacts new section 959.30 prohibiting persons convicted of misdemeanor animal abuse offenses from owning, possessing, or residing with companion animals for 5 years (or 15 years if prior animal abuse conviction).

Prohibits persons convicted of felony animal abuse offenses from owning, possessing, or residing with companion animals for 15 years (or lifetime if prior animal abuse conviction).

Amends section 959.132 to define violations of the new section 959.30 as animal abuse "offenses" subject to seizure and impoundment procedures for companion animals.

Requires courts to order forfeiture of companion animals to impounding agencies for violations of section 959.30.

Amends section 959.99 to make violations of section 959.30 a misdemeanor of the first degree and requires mandatory forfeiture of all companion animals in the offender's ownership or care.