Establishes a two-year Statewide Animal Advocate Program in the AOC to appoint advocates in animal-related criminal cases.

The bill establishes a two-year Statewide Animal Advocate Program in the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). It allows courts to appoint advocates in certain criminal cases affecting animal welfare or care. Advocates, selected from lists of attorneys and law students with animal law knowledge, monitor cases, attend hearings, and present recommendations to the court. The AOC maintains lists of eligible attorneys and law schools. The program expires after two years, regardless of recommendations to continue it.

Establishes a two-year Statewide Animal Advocate Program in the AOC to appoint advocates in animal-related criminal cases.

The bill establishes a two-year Statewide Animal Advocate Program in the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). It allows courts to appoint advocates in certain criminal cases affecting animal welfare or care. Advocates, selected from lists of attorneys and law students with animal law knowledge, monitor cases, attend hearings, and present recommendations to the court. The AOC maintains lists of eligible attorneys and law schools. The program expires after two years, regardless of recommendations to continue it.