UT SB0072

Creates a new legal category of "obscene animal abuse material" separate from pornographic material, defined as depictions of animal crushing or sexual conduct with animals that appeal to prurient interest and lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value

Defines "animal crushing" as intentionally crushing, burning, drowning, suffocating, impaling, or otherwise seriously injuring living non-human mammals, birds, reptiles, or amphibians, with exceptions for veterinary care, food slaughter, legal hunting/fishing, medical research, and self-defense

Establishes distributing obscene animal abuse material as a third degree felony for adults 18+, with minimum mandatory fine of $1,000 plus $10 per article and at least 30 days incarceration; class A misdemeanor for ages 16-17; class B misdemeanor for those under 16

Adds obscene animal abuse material to existing frameworks throughout Utah Code governing pornographic materials, including provisions for injunctive relief, search and seizure, civil liability, school property restrictions, and RICO-style unlawful activity definitions

Effective date: May 6, 2026