Substitute House Bill 33 Summary

• Requires licensed veterinarians, social service professionals, and persons licensed under Chapter 4757 to immediately report suspected companion animal abuse violations to a police officer or animal control officer.

• Mandates officers, dog wardens, and deputy dog wardens to immediately report suspected companion animal abuse to a social service professional when a child or older adult resides with the alleged violator and the violation may impact them.

• Provides civil and criminal liability immunity for good faith reports of animal abuse and requires courts to award attorney's fees to prevailing parties in cases where bad faith reporting is proven.

• Establishes penalties including confidential written warnings for first violations and escalating fines ($100-$500) for subsequent violations by veterinarians, counselors, and social service professionals.

• Creates disciplinary procedures for licensed professionals who fail to report animal abuse, with first violations receiving confidential warnings and subsequent violations subject to higher penalties and potential license suspension or revocation.