HB 5361 Michigan House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Crimes: animals; restitution for care and treatment of certain forfeited animals; impose penalty on ownership of animal to person convicted of certain crimes against animal. Amends sec. 50b of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.50b).

HB 5361 strengthens penalties for animal cruelty in Michigan by requiring courts to order convicted offenders to pay restitution for the care, housing, and veterinary treatment of seized companion animals (like pets or service animals). It clarifies that companion animals receive enhanced protections, with stricter penalties for intentional harm (e.g., killing or torturing a pet). The bill mandates restitution covering investigation, prosecution, and animal care costs - not previously required - and prohibits convicted individuals from owning animals during probation or permanently. It excludes lawful activities like hunting, farming, or veterinary care from these provisions.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Dec 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Dec 11, 2025 Last action Dec 16, 2025
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Dec 11, 2025
Committee
referred to Committee on Judiciary
lower
Dec 11, 2025
Introduced
introduced by Representative Rep. Joseph Aragona
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Joe Aragona
Joe Aragona
RRepublican
MI
60