2007 House Bill 4551 / Public Act 152

Increase penalties for certain animal abuse crimes

Introduced in the House

March 29, 2007

Introduced by Rep. John Espinoza (D-83)

To increase the penalties for abusing animals in cases of multiple animals, or when the abuse results in the death of an animal. The current penalty is up to 93 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. The penalties for the newly defined crime would be between one and four years in prison and a fine of between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the number of animals involved. The bill also authorizes consecutive sentences.

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

June 13, 2007

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-4) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

June 14, 2007

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that clarifies various provisions of the existing statute.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Passed in the House 90 to 16 (details)

Received in the Senate

June 19, 2007

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary

Dec. 11, 2007

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that revises details but does not change the substance of the bill as previously described.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Passed in the Senate 36 to 0 (details)

To increase the penalties for abusing animals in cases of multiple animals, or when the abuse results in the death of an animal. The current penalty is up to 93 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. The penalties for the newly defined crime would be between one and four years in prison and a fine of between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the number of animals involved. The bill also authorizes consecutive sentences.

Received in the House

Dec. 11, 2007

Dec. 12, 2007

Passed in the House 91 to 17 (details)

To concur with the Senate-passed version of the bill.

Signed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm

Dec. 20, 2007