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RI S2151
Bill
AI Summary
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Expands authority to take charge of abandoned, neglected, or hazardously accumulated animals to include city and town animal control officers, in addition to the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA)
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Authorizes city and town animal shelters to seek reimbursement from owners for reasonable care expenses and commence civil action for damages 30 days after written payment demand goes unanswered
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Allows owners to petition district court within 60 days of seizure notice to request return of their animal, with court considering the animal's condition and owner's ability to provide adequate care
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Permits city and town animal shelters to petition for transfer of animal ownership if owner fails to respond within 60 days of seizure notice or payment demand
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Takes effect upon passage
Legislative Description
Allows animal control officers in the cities and towns to lawfully take charge of and provide adequate care to any animal found abandoned or neglected or hazardously accumulated and includes them as agents authorized to enforce the provisions of this law.
Animals And Animal Husbandry
Last Action
Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary
1/16/2026