SB0433Enacted

Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 14, Part 2.

Tennessee SB0433 amends the state's animal cruelty laws by broadening the definition of abandonment to prohibit any abandonment of an animal, regardless of reasonableness. This bill affects individuals who own or are responsible for animals, making it illegal to abandon them without making reasonable arrangements for their care, even if the abandonment occurs near shelters or veterinary clinics. Key provisions include the removal of the "reasonableness" standard and clarifying that abandonment at shelters without proper care arrangements is not a valid defense.

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Overview

Tennessee SB0433 amends the state's animal cruelty laws by broadening the definition of abandonment to prohibit any abandonment of an animal, regardless of reasonableness. This bill affects individuals who own or are responsible for animals, making it illegal to abandon them without making reasonable arrangements for their care, even if the abandonment occurs near shelters or veterinary clinics. Key provisions include the removal of the "reasonableness" standard and clarifying that abandonment at shelters without proper care arrangements is not a valid defense.

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Sponsor

Reeves, Shane

Details
Session

114th General Assembly

Introduced

January 28, 2025

Last Action

May 15, 2025

Pub. Ch. 428

Subjects
Animal Cruelty and AbuseCriminal Offenses

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