Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for crimes against animals; revise. Amends sec. 1, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.1).

HB 4646 clarifies that "companion animal" (as defined in Michigan's penal code) is explicitly included in sentencing guidelines for animal-related crimes. The bill amends Michigan's code of criminal procedure to formally define this term within sentencing context, ensuring courts use the existing definition from MCL 750.50b. This change directly affects judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys handling cases involving cruelty to companion animals. It does not create new penalties or alter sentencing ranges - only standardizes terminology for consistency in court proceedings.