Criminal Law - Animal Abuse or Neglect - Penalties

SB 80 increases penalties for animal abuse or neglect in Maryland that results in an animal's death or the need for humane euthanasia. It raises penalties from up to 90 days/$1,000 to up to 3 years/$5,000 for such severe cases, requiring validation of euthanasia decisions by a second veterinarian or state veterinarian for livestock. The bill also adds new sentencing options, including mandatory counseling, reimbursement for animal care costs, and court-ordered bans on owning or living with animals for convicted offenders. This directly affects individuals convicted of severe animal cruelty and gives courts additional tools to address repeat offenses.