SB1352

Modifies the offense of animal abuse in Missouri, classifying it as a misdemeanor or felony based on circumstances.

The bill modifies the offense of animal abuse in Missouri by establishing specific conditions under which it is classified as a misdemeanor or felony. Animal abuse is a class A misdemeanor unless the defendant has a prior conviction, the animal suffered torture or mutilation, or the harm resulted from starvation, in which case it is a class E felony. The bill repeals and replaces section 578.012 of RSMo to clarify the conditions under which animal abuse is committed.