S.573

Reform Animal Cruelty and Neglect laws

Introduced·3/25/25

Reforms animal cruelty and neglect laws in North Carolina by adding standards for adequate space and shelter and addressing companion animal hoarding.

The bill amends North Carolina's animal cruelty and neglect laws by adding standards for adequate space and shelter for animals and addressing companion animal hoarding. It defines "adequate shelter" and "adequate space" and specifies conditions for tethering animals outdoors. The bill also defines "companion animal hoarder" and mandates psychological evaluations and treatment for those convicted of animal cruelty who fit this definition. The changes apply to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2025.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Rules and Operations of the Senate Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DD
2
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Mar 26, 2025

Senate

Passed 1st Reading

Mar 26, 2025

Senate

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

Mar 25, 2025

Senate

Filed